One of the bright young things in Argentinian football, Pastore made his name on home soil with some sparkling performances at Huracan before joining Italian side Palermo in 2009.

He began his career with Talleres and fell into the position of central midfield, but failed to make the breakthrough before being loaned to Huracan. Under the guise of manager Angel Cappa, he flourished and pushed the side on to within a whisker of winning the 2009 Clausura, gaining high praise for his performances.

Attracting the attention of European clubs - Manchester United and AC Milan were linked with deals for him - Palermo made the first move and were able to seal his signature for around €6 million. Making an immediate impact in Italy, his first season saw him take on the role of the super-sub, before cementing his place in the side to lead them to 5th in the table.

With talk of a move continuing to follow him, Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini slapped a huge price tag on him, which was eventually met when PSG paid €43m to bring him to France in July 2011.

Strengths: A visionary on the ball, his simple passing style and elegance in control are a joy to behold. He has great skill and ability to create space for others.

Weaknesses: Not the quickest, nor the most physical of players, he can be shrugged off the ball too easily at times.

Career high: He helped guide Palermo to 5th in 2009-10, their best league finish in years, and was named the 2010 Italian Young Footballer of the Year.

Career low: Managing just five games at his first club, he must have wondered if his career was ever going to take off.

Style: Languid, graceful, balanced, a classic No. 10.

Quotes: "I always tried to imitate Kaka's style. I also met his dad, Bosco. It's really nice to be compared to him." Pastore on his own style.

Trivia: He has a nickname of El Flaco (the skinny one) and is something of a joker in the dressing room, with a talent for impersonations.