The World Cup is almost over, and I’ve got a feeling that once things close we’re going to get a lot of transfer drama…so I’d better hurry up and finish this dang series.
If elite wingers are football’s rarest attacking commodity, top-class center backs aren’t far behind. The modern game asks central defenders to do far more than simply win headers and make tackles. They’re expected to initiate attacks, defend huge spaces behind a high line, break opposition pressure with their passing and still handle the game’s best forwards one-versus-one. Finding players who can consistently do all of that is incredibly difficult, which explains why clubs are willing to spend so heavily whenever one becomes available.
Arsenal aren’t desperate for reinforcements in central defense, but William Saliba’s injury in this week’s semi final has certainly caused some fear that Arsenal may need additional depth in the back. Whether any of those fears materialize remains to be seen, but this list includes several names who look capable of making the jump to an elite club over the next few seasons—and a few who may already be ready.
As always, these rankings are purely based on the numbers and should not be used as a replacement for good, old-fashioned scouting. They also do not necessarily reflect my own views of these players. Now, let’s get into the top 25.
