New stars for the new season

13 April 2012
ARSENAL

Gilberto Silva (Atletico Mineiro, £4.5m)

The 25-year-old midfielder broke into Brazil's squad last year. Playing in a holding role, Silva took his chance superbly and played in every minute of Brazil's seven World Cup matches during their triumphant campaign.

Pascal Cygan (Lille, £2.1m)

With time having caught up with Tony Adams, the French centre-half is a welcome addition to the squad. Cygan, 28, played in the Champions League last season.

Fabian Carini (Juventus, loan)

Hugely talented, the Uruguayan with 38 caps had a frustrating year in Italy playing No 2 to the world's most expensive goalkeeper, £32m Gianluigi Buffon. The 21-year-old will be hoping for more chances at Arsenal as David Seaman nears the end of his career.

LIVERPOOL

El Hadji Diouf (Lens, £10m)

Gerard Houllier shrewdly snapped up the 21-year-old African Footballer of the Year before the striker stole the show with a superb display for Senegal against France in the opening game of the World Cup. Has scored 13 goals in 27 internationals.

Salif Diao (Sedan, £5m)

The all-action midfielder showed both sides of his game during Senegal's World Cup clash against Denmark. The 25-year-old finished off a superb team goal but was then sent off. Diao has 24 caps.

Bruno Cheyrou (Lille, £4m)

The 24-year-old Frenchman has already impressed in Liverpool's pre-season friendlies. A lively and creative goalscoring left-sided midfielder, Cheyrou can also play as a striker.

Alou Diarra (Bayern Munich, free)

Another French midfielder, although he plays in a more defensive role. The 21-year-old failed to break into the Bayern side and Liverpool have loaned him to French club Le Havre to gain experience.

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