Antonio Valencia

Ecuadorian winger Antonio Valencia became United's first summer signing in 2009 when he joined the Reds from Wigan Athletic on 30 June.

The skilful 23-year-old has more than 30 caps for his country, including one in the 1-0 defeat to England in the 2006 World Cup. His performances at the tournament earned him a nomination for FIFA's Best Young Player award and raised a few eyebrows among Europe's top bosses.

It was Wigan boss Paul Jewell, however, who won the race for his signature and he arrived at the JJB Stadium on loan that year, having previously enjoyed stints in Spain at Recreativo Huelva (loan) and Villarreal. It was the latter who first spotted his talent, bringing him to Europe from Ecuadorian club El Nacional in 2005.

Steve Bruce, who spent two years managing Valencia at Wigan, regards him as one of the most exciting prospects in the English game. His pace and ability to go past a man and reach the byline were key to Wigan’s rise