The summer transfer market is always a strong illustration as to why Ligue 1 has branded itself the "league of talents" with many European clubs opting to do their shopping in the French topflight. This year has been no different with plucking from AS and moving fast to snare from Stade Rennais . Despite raids on other clubs such as swooping in for RC ' Cheick Doucoure, there is still plenty of talent left in Le Championnat and some surprising big names too.
Our pick of the best France-based names.
: Jonathan David
Expected to be a leading name in this summer's transfer window, the Canada international remains with Lille OSC for now. Still only 22, he netted 15 times last season despite a dry patch mid-season and Les Dogues' struggle to replicate their 2021 title success. David has seen Real Madrid and Bayern Munich links come and go, but LOSC's signing of Mohamed Bayo suggests that Paulo Fonseca's men are ready for his departure when a suitable offer arrives.
:
One of the most coveted names in French soccer so far this summer, the 20-year-old is back with Paris Saint-Germain after consecutive loans with RC Lens. Scorer of 12 goals last campaign, Kalimuendo has shown promise in preseason friendlies under Christophe Galtier's watchful eye and there could yet be a squad role for him. However, the signing of , and the interest of clubs such as , and OGC could yet tempt PSG to cash in on the youngster who is competing with Kylian Mbappe, and for minutes in attack.
Lens:
One of last season's outstanding performers in Ligue 1, the international is a wanted man and the Northerners has fielded enquiries from domestic clubs and beyond for the 27-year-old. With Doucoure and moving on, Frank Haise has already seen two key components leave the club and he will not want to lose another integral piece. However, every player within the project has their price and super talent identification and acquisition means that RCL are well prepared to potentially see him go.
Lyon:
Once the golden boy, the international's form has suffered along with that of his team in the past few years and the 24-year-old remains at Groupama Stadium. There were rumors about earlier this summer, but nothing has materialized so far with substantial interest in teammate also being fielded. OL's latest push has been to repatriate former youth academy stars so Aouar could yet be part of a homegrown , but he has made it clear that he would like to spread his wings as soon as possible and potentially follow in 's footsteps.
Rennes:
Given the sales of Aguerd and Tel already this summer, it is difficult to see Rennes cashing in on the 21-goal Frenchman now -- especially with the defensive reinforcement taking time to come to fruition. There has been interest from the likes of who since moved to , but the 25-year-old's prolific explosion last season will have many clubs across Europe keeping tabs on his situation should a bid be tabled.
Keep an eye on ...
Although those five are arguably the top picks from Ligue 1 right now, there are several other gems waiting to be plucked by European giants. 's had to wait patiently until he finally got his move to this summer and there are others in that same bracket with RC Alsace's and FC pair and on the radars of numerous continental outfits.
There are also some of the higher profile names such as Monaco's , Nice's Khephren Thuram and Olympique de Marseille's who have been the subject of Premier League interest in recent months. With another month of business left, there is still plenty of great value to be had within the French borders.
Lille
Auxerre
Game Capsensus
France - Ligue 1
FINAL (8/7/2022)
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