With the financial implications of the coronavirus pandemic starting to be felt in all industries around the world, businesses at all levels are attempting to make plans with regards to their future, both in the short and long term. Given the vast amount of money involved in football and sports betting, especially at the elite level, teams around the globe will inevitably have to change their plans ahead of the next transfer window, placing a focus on balancing the books over signing the next big thing. Although that will naturally impact some of the sport's star names, it throws open the possibility of largely unheralded players being provided with opportunities which they may not usually get, and that will realistically lead to players in the MLS receiving offers from the other side of the pond.
Just like you can take calculated gambles with online gambling sites in Canada selection, teams will be assessing whether it is worth taking a risk on Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez. A serious knee injury will lead to the Venezuela international spending much of the current MLS campaign on the sidelines, but the 26-year-old has long been in the sights of English teams having scored 90 goals from 103 appearances since 2017. Martinez has not necessarily impressed on the international scene with his country but his injury is likely to lead to a reduction in his asking price, something which will undoubtedly lead to clubs thinking that they can secure themselves a bargain.
On paper, Columbus Crew frontman Gyasi Zardes will not come across as the most obvious option available to Premier League clubs, but the 28-year-old has been producing the best form of his career. A return of 32 goals from 61 appearances has been put together in the MLS over the past two seasons, which has led to him regaining his spot in the United States side. However, Columbus may be open to cashing in on the player, who holds a long-term contract on a significant wage, if a team from the Premier League come calling. Given his performances and physical presence, it would not be a surprise if they did.
Having picked up multiple individual accolades for his defensive performances in recent years, it surely cannot be long before Ike Opara is given the chance to move to Europe. The centre-back has just turned 31 years of age, something which may put off some clubs, but the Minnesota United star deserves his shot in England or elsewhere. Opara has only recently signed a new contract but like with Zardes, Minnesota may be open to a sale should it make financial sense for all involved.
Eduard Atuesta is another player who Premier League clubs may feel is worth a punt. Although he is yet to earn his first cap with Colombia, the 23-year-old produced the best season of his career at Los Angeles FC in 2019, which led to him being selected in the MLS Team Of The Year. While his potential is obvious, any admirers of Atuesta will also be aware that he has just over a year-and-a-half left on his contract. Providing that he continues his progression, the next logical step is a move to a team in Europe, potentially a mid-table Premier League outfit who can hand him regular game time.
Toronto legend Jonathan Osorio must also be thinking that a call or two may soon come from England. The 27-year-old is established as the star man at the Canadian outfit, contributing 41 goals and 24 assists from 246 appearances. While generally regarded as a central midfielder, his versatility would prove to be a valuable asset to any club willing to hand him his big chance. It has been almost two years since his last contract extension, likely meaning that negotiations will soon take place regarding his future.
