ExtraFootie's quest for the "next big thing" in world football, this weeke focuses on Napoli's midfield sensation Marek Hamsik.

With a hairstyle resembling Sonic the Hedgehog, the Slovak could hardly be described as inconspicuous.

Whatever superlatives have been used to describe the 22 year-old at this early stage of his career, one thing is for sure - he is a special talent.

There is a reason why Premier League champions Manchester United are so keen to part with their Cristiano Ronaldo windfall and secure his services. There's also a reason why Chelsea are willing to splash out £25million for his signature.

Hamsik has all the necessary requirements needed to grace the game's highest echelons.

When Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis signed him for just €5.5million (£4m) from Brescia in 2007, he described Hamsik as 'a player to look out for in the future'. Wise words indeed.

Hamsik's arsenal of qualities make him one of world football's leading talents.

Having claimed the Peter Dubovský Young Slovak Player of the Year award in 2007, Hamsik ended 2008/09 season as Napoli's top scorer - a feat made all the more remarkable considering that it was his second consecutive year as the club's Golden Boot winner.

The midfield maestro has also translated his league form onto the international stage and having netted eight times for the national side in 29 appearances, is ready to captain the Repre at their first ever World Cup finals next summer.

Fans of Serie A will have noted his two goals which destroyed Juventus at the Stadio Olimpico last month as Napoli ran out 3-2 winners.

We think the rest of the world is about to be Hamsik-ed!

Fact File:

Name: Marek Hamsik
Age: 22
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Club: Napoli (Italy)
Country: Slovakia
Caps: 29
Major Honours: N/A

ExtraFootie provides this video showcasing Hamsik in action. Blink and you'll miss him!