English Premier League, player transfers and one's to watch

Football’s summer transfer season is upon us; Hulk, Eden Hazard (both Chelsea) and Shinji Kagawa (Manchester United) the latest players to sign to play in England next season. Speculation now abounds as to which other players will be making a move either to or within the 2012/13 installment of the Premier League. European club champions Chelsea and national title holders Manchester City are in the box seats to buy the cream of the crop, both sides highly attractive destinations, thanks to the cash of Roman Abramovich and Sheik Mansour, respectively, and the allure of gleaming trophies in their cabinets.

Of the others at the top, Manchester United appear devoid of fresh ideas, seeking to improve an uncreative midfield, and Arsenal, currently the fourth richest club in the world, are suffering from their insistence on buying young players cheap, only to sell them on for a profit when they have learnt their trade. Meanwhile, Tottenham’s failure to qualify for the Champions League is likely to trigger a mini-exodus. It’s an exciting time. Here are the players you should be keeping an eye on over the next few weeks.

YANN M’VILA

While Arsenal excelled up front last season, largely due to their Dutch captain, their defence was atrocious. Rennes defensive midfielder M’Vila would be a welcome addition at the Emirates. Despite being only 21, he has an imposing physical presence and is a top passer, often instrumental in building attacks from the back. M’Vila also has a maturity that belies his years, having represented every French age group team he has been eligible for.
Likely price: £15m
Likely club: Arsenal