It seems like every summer ridiculous transfer stories are thrown around just to insert a big name or two. Crazy fees suggested between powerhouse clubs that get the heart racing, but never come to fruition.
Sometimes however, there can be financial difficulties at a club, a player looking for a different challenge or a fee too good to turn down. Here are seven world class defenders that could well and truly see themselves land in a new destination by the start of next season.
1. Kalidou Koulibaly (Napoli)
Linked Clubs: Chelsea
Senegalese centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly is one of the most sought after defenders in today's game. Many a club have said to be interested in him over the last year, but a potential move that is picking up traction could see Koulibaly switch the blue of Naples for that of London.
With ex-boss Maurizio Sarri now the manager in SW6, it is looking more than likely that a big money bid will be heading towards Napoli. Blessed with pace, power and height, Koulibaly's skill set encompasses everything you could want in a modern day defender.
It was alleged that Chelsea had made a £50m bid for the French-born centre-half two years ago, with the club a long term admirer. If they are to prize him away from the shores of Italy now, it'll cost them even more. Napoli chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis has placed an £80m price tag on him.
2. Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich)
Linked Clubs: PSG
After what can only be described as a dismal World Cup with Germany, Jerome Boateng may be looking for a new challenge. Tussling with Niklas Sule for his position at Bayern Munich, the ex-Man City man seems likely to leave the Bundesliga for pastures new.
With the German champions since 2011, the 29-year-old has an apparent suitor in French giants PSG. Boateng will be hoping to kick-start his career back into action after a disappointing last few years, and Paris could be the place to do it.
The Bavarian side announced that if the right offer arrives, then Boateng can go. Rumours have circulated that the Parisians have verbally offered €35m this week, and it looks like it should be enough. Boateng may prove to be the piece PSG need to finally challenge for the Champions League.
3. Lucas Digne (Barcelona)
Linked Clubs: Everton
Barcelona left-back Lucas Digne has been a bit-part player for La Blaugrana over the last few seasons. Nobody doubts the Frenchman's talent, it's just that he continues to find it difficult to displace Jordi Alba from his starting spot.
Lack of gametime has seen the 24-year-old miss out on the France national team squad for this year's World Cup, and he may want to think about leaving the Catalan capital if he is to get back in Didier Deschamps' plans. Having previously played for PSG and Roma, the full-back has continental experience, and the intelligence to fit in anywhere.
It appears that Everton have opened talks, looking for a long-term replacement as club hero Leighton Baines starts to run down. Apparently Digne is in no rush to leave Barca, however, if the Toffees offer is big enough, he may have little choice in the matter.
4. Toby Alderweireld (Tottenham)
Linked Clubs: Manchester United
Belgian international Toby Alderweireld is coming off of a third place finish in this summer's World Cup and may contemplate his future in the next few weeks. The Spurs contract rebel is said to be keen to get away, as he looks to challenge for the Premier League title.
One destination that could attract Alderweireld would be Manchester United. With Jose Mourinho continually switching between the likes of Eric Bailly, Chris Smalling, Victor Lindelof, Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones, it would be in his best interests to buy an undoubtedly elite level centre-back.
However, it is suggested that Spurs and Manchester United are £20m away in their valuations for the player, with Daniel Levy's notorious hardball tactics coming in to play. This could turn out to be one that drags on until deadline day.
5. Yerry Mina (Barcelona)
Linked Clubs: Everton, Leicester City, West Ham
Yerry Mina only joined Barcelona from Palmeiras in January, however it seems the Colombian is having second thoughts about where he wants to play his future football. With only a handful of appearances to his name at Barca, it is said that Mina wishes to start more regularly.
After a stellar World Cup with Colombia, the vultures have started to circle. Everton, Leicester City and now West Ham have become interested. Reports suggest the latter has offered a deal worth £25m, and if successful, would add to a summer spree.
It appears Everton are still the favourites though, with the Goodison club's pursuit of the defender ramping up a gear. New coach Marco Silva was keen to investigate the possibility of a loan-to-buy deal, but after West Ham's bid, the Toffees have thrown down £26.5m to push through the move.
6. Leonardo Bonucci (Milan)
Linked Clubs: Manchester United
The last season has been a bit of a rollcoaster where Leonardo Bonucci is concerned, with his big money move from Juventus to AC Milan raising heads around the globe. It now seems that the Serie A club could be forced to sell under FFP regulations and one team in particular are interested.
Manchester United have been closely monitoring the Italian's situation, with Jose Mourinho said to be a big fan. Current Milan owner Li Yonghong has defaulted on his debt, and I Rossoneri may be pushed into a less than fair deal.
Rumours suggest the Red Devils have made an introductory offer of €32m, and if Milan were forced to accept, it should prove to be a great bargain. At 31, the defender has appeared 80 times for his national side and could bring a wealth of experience to the Old Trafford back line. All signs point to a phenomenal deal for Manchester United.
7. Diego Godin (Atletico Madrid)
Linked Clubs: Juventus
Uruguayan defender Diego Godin is seen as one of the best leaders in today's game. Strong, intelligent and vocal, he would be a great addition to any squad. Surprisingly, the Atletico Madrid centre-back has a measly release clause of £20m in his current deal, which should have teams clamouring.
The 32-year-old has been in the Spanish capital since 2010, and scored the vital goal against Barcelona in the 2013/14 La Liga title-winning campaign. Yet, for some reason, the only club that seem to be interested at the moment are Italian champions Juventus.
With Daniele Rugani and Medhi Benatia looking to move on, the Old Lady are said to have made contact with La Rojiblancos for Godin's signature. It would be a daring swoop from I Bianconeri, but one that would no doubt pay dividends. Juve will want to seal this deal up quickly, because before too long, other teams should be sniffing around.