Prem Bound? The Icelandic midfielder without a hefty price tag
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While the new TV deal means Premier League clubs have more chance to splash the cash than ever before, savvy managers will still be looking to make an inspired signing without parting with the big bucks. So chances are that FC Basel and Iceland midfielder Birkir Bjarnason will be attracting interest on British shores.
The 28-year-old helped Basel to a seventh straight Swiss Super League title last season, netting ten times from left midfield during an outstanding first campaign for Rotblau.
But it’s Bjarnason’s displays for the national side which have really enhanced his profile. He starred in all 10 games in qualifying en route to Euro 2016, as Strakamir okkar won home and away against World Cup 2010 finalists Netherlands.
And the former Pescara star has replicated those displays on the biggest stage, netting an ice-cool equaliser against Portugal, to ensure his place in history as Iceland’s first ever goalscorer at a major tournament.
A robust and committed player with a creative streak, he’d be a natural fit for Tony Pulis’ imposing West Brom side, while Leicester City could also be interested, with the Foxes looking to pad their squad with quality reinforcements ahead of a first-ever Champions League campaign.
So too Hull City, whose small squad currently only boasts one left-sided midfielder – the talented but inconsistent Sam Clucas.
With Transfermarkt.co.uk estimating Bjarnason’s market value at just £1.88m, the player could be available for an absolute steal – though any potential suitors would be wise to move quickly, with his Euros displays sure to see his value keep increasing.
It’s already been a busy week for the 28-year-old, who helped defeat England in the last-16 and was offered a modelling contract by fashion chain ASOS. But we could well see fans of a Prem club swooning over his footwork – rather than his looks – next season.
Iceland are 15/2 to beat hosts France in their upcoming quarter-final, with Bjarnason 8/1 to find the net anytime. Do that, and gaffers across the land could be jumping on the next plane to Paris in the hopes of getting their man.
Transfermarkt.co.uk valuation: £1.88m / Potential Prem Clubs: Hull City, Leicester City, West Brom
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
