As clear as mud: the Summer transfer window in the Liga

Ker-ching! Yes dear reader, it's that time of year again. The time when the boots go away and the mobiles come out, when journalists and fans alike are driven into a catatonic frenzy of facts, rumour, and pure bullshit. The transfer season isn't exactly enjoyable, in fact most of the time it can be a total nightmare. But it's like an ingrowing toenail - ignore it, and you're only storing up trouble for later.

With that analogy in mind, what follows is the opening stanza of a four-part speculative symphony. I'll examine, in alphabetical order, the sixteen teams who will be competing in the top flight next season: where they're at, who's in, who's out, etc. If you've got any juicy, non-libellous tidbits, feel free to post them below. Or you can accuse me of destabilising your club. Whichever you prefer.

Académica de Coimbra

Where they're at: 2010/11 was a wholly forgettable campaign for the Briosa. The surprise departure of Jorge Costa, followed by the brief but damaging reign of José Guilherme, left Ulisses Morais with a relegation battle on his hands. Académica survived, but are once again without a coach after President Simões chose not to renew Morais' short-term contract. The upcoming election further muddies the already murky waters.

Who's out: A few fringe figures (Amoreirinha, Pedro Costa, Júnior Paraíba), though these are unlikely to be missed. Far more concerning are the losses of Nuno Coelho and Modou Sougou, neither of whom elected to extend their contracts. They may well be followed by Diogo Valente (back to parent club Braga) and Miguel Fidalgo.

Who's in: There have been some encouraging noises with regards to contract extensions. Goalkeeper Peiser (arguably the outstanding performer last season) has tied himself to the club until 2014, with Pedrinho, Amaury Bischoff and Éder expected to follow. The election means that any reinforcements are likely to arrive later: a full-back, defensive midfielder and winger(s) would be gratefully received by whoever ends up in the dugout next season. Combative midfielder Bruno Amaro would be an excellent acquisition.

CD Feirense

Where they're at: The crest of a wave, basically. Feirense will begin their first top-flight campaign since 1989/90 this coming August, after mounting an outstanding segunda volta to pip Trofense and early front runners Oliveirense to the Liga de Honra post. Coach Quim Machado has confirmed that he'll be at the helm, in what will be only his second season in the professional leagues. His task will be maintaining the squad's mental strength in the face of stiffer competition.

Who's out: Goalkeeper Paulo Lopes is reportedly attracting the attentions of Olhanense, whilst forward Roberto is of interest to clubs in the Middle East. Particularly crucial is the retention of midfielder Siaka Bamba, the promising Ivorian youngster having screened the defence with noticeable maturity last season.

Who's in: Promoted clubs traditionally struggle for goals, and the Feirense front line as it stands doesn't look like bucking that trend. Not counting Roberto, the remaining forwards have just a single top-flight goal between them, and whilst rumoured target Jeremie N'Jock was excellent at Arouca last season, he is also without a track record at the highest level. There is plenty of experience in other positions, though a proven left-back would not go amiss.

CD Nacional

Where they're at: After a sluggish start to the season, Nacional secured Europa League qualifcation on the final day with a victory at Beira-Mar. Having seen the fiery Predrag Jokanovic resign (citing a lack of support from the fans), the appointment of youth coach Ivo Vieira was something of a gamble, but happily for the Madeira club, it paid off. With the first leg of the Europa League 2nd qualifying round taking place on July 14th, time is of the essence in Funchal.

Who's out: So far, a trio of key protagonists from 2010/11. Goalkeeper Rafael Bracali and the aforementioned Bruno Amaro both chose not to extend their contracts with the club, with Bracali apparently headed for the Porto substitutes bench. The centre-back pairing of Felipe Lopes and Danielson were outstanding last season, and will surely be on a number of radars. Club captain and right-back Patacas has hung up his boots and taken up the position of sporting director, Luís Alberto is of interest to Porto (according to A Bola), whilst livewire forward Diego Barcellos is also being linked with a move away. Orlando Sá is also due to return to his parent club (Porto). Phew.

Who's in: President Rui Alves and Patacas are currently in Brazil, and given Nacional's prodigious turnover of plays from said country, expect a busy summer at Choupana. Flamengo youngster Marcelo Valverde is reportedly on the verge of joining, whilst Vieira will run the rule over Amar, Michael, Vinícius and Pedrinho, all of whom spent last season on loan at Camacha. However, if the departures of Bracali, Amaro and Alberto come to pass, goalkeepers and midfielders will be top of the list.

CS Marítimo

Where they're at: Marítimo paid a heavy price for their brief European adventure last season, with Mitchell van der Gaag shouldering the blame for his squad's inability to mount a campaign on two demanding fronts. Marítimo were in the drop zone as late as October, but Pedro Martins did a fine job in easing them clear and towards the top half. Trigger-happy President Carlos Pereira will not countenance a similar start to 2011/12.

Who's out: Much of Martins' success can be attributed to the form of his front three during the segunda volta. Babá, Djalma and Kléber combined for 23 crucial goals, but unfortunately for their coach, all three are likely to be off over the summer. Kléber has returned to parent club Atlético Mineiro, with Porto strongly linked, despite Pereira's entertaining protests. Djalma agreed to join the Dragons in January, whilst Marítimo have in recent days turned down a 3.5M € bid for Babá from Dnipro. Centre-back Roberge has been linked with a return to France and Sochaux, whilst excellent 'keeper Marcelo Boeck is reportedly a Sevilla target.

Who's in: It will be intriguing to see if Marítimo look to extend the loan of Edinho. Unwanted by Málaga, the winger made little impact after arriving in January, but remains a gifted (if frustrating) player. Martins has one of the largest squads in the Liga at his disposal, and any outlays will likely be dependent on the size of Babá's transfer fee. A creative midfielder to compliment the more dynamic stylings of Salim Benachour would be a welcome addition.

Coming up in part two: FC Paços de Ferriera, FC Porto, Gil Vicente, and Rio Ave.