Not too many people had heard of David Brooks before this season. But he has been a revelation since joining Bournemouth from Sheffield United in the last summer’s transfer window.
Now, at 21, Brooks is one of this season’s breakthrough Premier League stars having seamlessly adapted to the demands of the top-flight. The Welshman’s creative, vibrant displays in Bournemouth colours haven’t gone unnoticed, with the Manchester Evening News reporting that the likes of Tottenham and Manchester United already keen on signing him ahead of the next season.
Bournemouth will be keen to hold onto Brooks, who is currently out injured. Eddie Howe has built an exciting Bournemouth side filled with young players and he’ll be reluctant to lose his prized asset after just one season. However, if Tottenham or Manchester United come calling in the summer, it could be difficult for Brooks to turn down the chance to join either one of them.
That said, it’s important for Howe to chalk out potential replacements for his Welsh star from now on. Hertha Berlin’s Valentino Lazaro fits the bill at Bournemouth perfectly and Howe should definitely target him ahead of the 2019/20 campaign.
Valentino Lazaro, 22, is a right-back by trade but excels in an advanced role on the right wing or through the middle. He has been excellent for Hertha this season so far, bagging two goals and three assists in 21 Bundesliga games.
Operating anywhere behind the striker, the young midfielder’s lightning feet makes him a treat to watch. Valentino Lazaro also shows a tremendous work rate when his team doesn’t retain possession.
Known for his quick feet, vision, flawless passing and creativity, the Austrian knows to pick out promising positions and supply incisive passes in the final third for his teammates. Lazaro’s versatility make him an asset to have in the squad, while his set-piece delivery is second to none.
When the summer transfer window opens, Bournemouth should go all out to sign Lazaro. The Austrian international has the natural talent to blossom into a world-beater under Howe’s watchful eyes. He’ll be a fantastic long-term investment as the 22-year-old has got the talent to thrill the Bournemouth supporters for years to come.
