Transfer Talk: Where next for Danish star Eriksen?

Christian Eriksen’s return to English football has been nothing short of a fairytale.

Eriksen, 30, joined Brentford in January, just seven months after suffering a cardiac arrest on the pitch while playing for Denmark at Euro 2020. 

The ex-Tottenham midfielder wasted no time settling back into action as he inspired the Bees to steer clear of relegation and eventually finish 13th in their first Premier League campaign.

His fine form has attracted the attention of a host of clubs, including Spurs. 

And having only joined Brentford until the end of the 2021-22 campaign, he is widely expected to move on this summer.

We look at the reported destinations the Danish star has to choose from.

Brentford

After an enjoyable spell in West London, Eriksen may well be tempted to extend his stay with the Bees.

The playmaker became a firm fan favourite before he had even stepped on the pitch, while a goal and four assists in 11 appearances will have done that popularity no harm.

It also seems the feeling was mutual, with Eriksen often appreciative of the support he has received since joining Thomas Frank’s outfit.

And the club have made it clear that if it were up to them, Eriksen would be wearing the red and white again next season.

Director of football Phil Giles said: "It is no secret we would love Christian to remain at Brentford and we will continue to discuss that possibility with him and his representatives."

Tottenham

Eriksen could opt for a reunion with both Spurs and Antonio Conte, who managed him at Inter Milan.

The Dane won the Serie A title under Conte and the pair have had only good words to say about each other since.

It would also prove a popular move with the Tottenham faithful following Eriksen's successful spell at the club between 2013 and 2020.

And the fact Spurs have qualified for the Champions League could hand them a significant boost in landing their former star, with the Dane admitting he would like return to Europe’s elite competition.

The 111-cap international said: "I would love to play Champions League football again. I know how much fun it is, but it isn't essential for me."

Manchester United

While Manchester United’s poor season means the best they can offer is Europa League football next term, they still have the pulling power to attract big names. 

A significant rebuild is sure to already be underway at Old Trafford as new manager Erik ten Hag looks to restore United as a force in English football.

So what better way for the former Ajax boss to implement his footballing philosophy than to bring in a player who spent many of his developing years at the Dutch club's famed academy?

A move for Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong has also been mooted, with technically-gifted playmakers sure to be a requirement in Ten Hag’s new-look team.

But with the Catalan giants reportedly demanding a fee of upwards of £70million, out-of-contract Eriksen would represent an absolute steal in comparison, especially given his experience at Premier League level.

Elsewhere in the Premier League

The wealth of interest elsewhere in England shows many clubs see a move for free agent Eriksen as great business. 

Wealthy Newcastle are often a club mentioned when high-profile players become available.

Eddie Howe is building an exciting squad on Tyneside and it would only be enhanced by the playmaker’s arrival, but his experience and know-how are equally important attributes.

West Ham are another to be credited with an interest as they look to continue mixing it with some of the Premier League’s best under David Moyes.

With Leicester and Everton also reportedly vying for his signature, it seems Eriksen’s journey in English football will continue if he wants it to.

Ajax

But a move back to where his senior career started at Ajax will no doubt also be in the back of Eriksen’s mind.

He would get the chance to challenge for titles by returning to the Netherlands, while Champions League football next season is another tick in the Eredivisie side’s box.

It is yet another club where there is a shared fondness between player and supporters.

The Denmark centurion trained with his former side before his deadline-day move to Brentford and he would likely be welcomed back with open arms.

Decision time

While reiterating his desire to win more trophies, Eriksen has made it clear that being close to his family will be an important factor in his next move.

That would suggest a club he already knows and is appreciated at would make the most sense.

Of those teams, Spurs and Ajax would likely afford him a better chance to add to his trophy haul than Brentford.

But given the success he has brought to the Bees since they gave him a chance to return to the Premier League, do not bet against him extending his stay in West London.