Liverpool Lining Up “World-class Material” Who Could Be Slot’s Van Dijk Signing
Liverpool will maintain their self-sustainable transfer model despite the recent changes at Anfield. FSG’s new structure includes Arne Slot replacing the highly regarded Jurgen Klopp as manager.
It’s clear that Liverpool must make some signings this summer to bridge the gap with Manchester City and Arsenal at the top of the Premier League. They also aim to mount a serious challenge for the Champions League trophy after missing out last season.
With Joel Matip leaving at the end of his contract, Virgil van Dijk approaching 33, and Ibrahima Konate struggling at the end of the 2022/23 campaign, Liverpool are keen to take advantage of a unique market opportunity.
Liverpool are widely known to be contenders for LOSC Lille’s 18-year-old centre-back, Leny Yoro, who is reportedly valued at €60 million (£51 million) by the French club.
However, Real Madrid are also in the race, and Yoro is believed to prefer a move to Los Blancos. Despite this, Liverpool remain determined in their pursuit and are ready to act if an opportunity arises.
That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, as reported by Caught Offside, the Reds “will be there” for the “generational talent” if Real Madrid does not make an official bid.
Leny Yoro Would Be Perfect for Liverpool
Although young, Yoro has already demonstrated the potential to become a top-class defender in the future. Talent scout Jacek Kulig even considers him to be “world-class material.“
Standing at 6 feet 1 inch with a limber frame, Yoro played a key role for Paulo Fonseca’s Lille team last season. He started in 30 Ligue 1 matches, scored two goals, completed 92% of his passes, and won 63% of his duels, according to Sofascore.
Yoro has a relaxed, almost languid style of defending, but he is always intelligent and alert. Despite his youth and inexperience, he ranked among the top 5% of Ligue 1 centre-backs for pass completion last year, according to FBref, showcasing his technical proficiency.
Scout and journalist Antonio Mango has compared Yoro to Van Dijk, suggesting he has the potential to replace the Liverpool and Netherlands captain, who has only 12 months left on his Anfield contract.
Yoro’s tactical style is notably similar to Van Dijk’s. While Van Dijk is more creative and consistent with his long passes, Yoro shows promise despite being 14 years younger.
| Leny Yoro vs Virgil van Dijk (Stats Comparison) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Statistics | Leny Yoro | Virgil van Dijk |
| Matches played | 32 | 36 |
| Goals | 2 | 2 |
| Clean sheets | 13 | 9 |
| Pass completion | 92% | 91% |
| Touches per game | 67.6 | 90.8 |
| Key passes per game | 0.1 | 0.4 |
| Recoveries per game | 3.9 | 4.7 |
| Tackles per game | 1.1 | 1.1 |
| Interceptions per game | 1.1 | 1.1 |
| Clearances per game | 3.0 | 3.9 |
| Duels won per game | 3.3 (63%) | 5.4 (76%) |
| All stats via Sofascore | ||
Both players excel in distribution, with Yoro demonstrating a more conservative approach. Neither frequently commits to tackles or lunging interceptions, which is advantageous as it indicates a calm and composed demeanor. However, when necessary, both are adept in one-on-one duels.
Described as an “11/10 talent” by Kulig, Yoro has a long journey ahead to reach Van Dijk’s level but possesses the potential to forge a similar career as the Anfield star.
While Real Madrid currently leads the race to sign Yoro, if they decide against it, Liverpool will make every effort to bring him to Merseyside.
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