On Boxing Day, club football returns, and a week later, the January transfer window opens. Here are three fullbacks to keep an eye on. Some players, like fullbacks, catch everyone’s attention at every major tournament.
In the subsequent transfer window, which typically occurs in the summer, these players make significant moves. The competition to sign the biggest names should begin in January.
Fullbacks are now more than just defenders. They are also being used as attacking routes by teams all over football. A top full-back can create space for wingers to wreck havoc in the final third and provide goals and assists from wide areas.
Groups are proceeding to search for players here, and the last month in Qatar has tossed some at the center of attention. Three players to keep an eye on are listed below.
#1 Josip Juranovic – Celtic – Full-back
In June 2021, fullback Josip Juranovic moved to Celtic from Legia Warsaw. However, the 27-year-old has already piqued the interest of a number of teams. A strong and going-after full-back, he has dazzled close-by players like Josko Gvardiol and others in the Croatian protection. Despite Celtic’s best efforts, Juranovic has refused to sign an extension until his contract expires in May 2026.
According to Spanish media, the player is wanted by Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. Chelsea was accounted for to have a premium in him over the mid-year, while others have been connected to him.
Juranovic is an excellent option for the team’s depth, but he also has the potential to challenge for a starting position. It will be exciting to compete for his signature.
#2 Denzel Dumfries – Inter Milan – Right-back
As the transfer window approaches, right-back Denzel Dumfries is once more attracting attention. The Dutch full-back signed with Inter Milan in August 2021, but Inter may try to cash in on the player due to the club’s unstable financial situation.
Dumfries’ good performance for the Netherlands in Qatar would have helped him get noticed by scouts.
According to the Manchester Evening News, Manchester United are interested in the player, but they are up against Chelsea and Bayern Munich. Dumfries has the speed and strength to play in the Premier League, and if Benjamin Pavard moved to Bayern, he would be a good replacement.
While Inter Milan will try to keep the player, he currently appears to be the most marketable asset.
#3 Angelo Preciado – Genk – Right-back
Ecuador was a thrilling team in the World Cup’s group stages, and Angelo Preciado posed a threat from the right wingback position. The 24-year-old signed with Genk in January 2021 to play in the Jupiler Pro League. Genk has the option to extend his current contract for an additional two years until June 2023.
Always Inter, citing Corriere Dello Sport, stated that Preciado had impressed Director Piero Ausilio of Inter Milan. Preciado could be a cheap buy for the Italian team if Dumfries leaves. Whether this interest transforms into anything concrete, the reality of the situation will come out eventually. Don’t be surprised if other teams join the fray if a team moves for Preciado.