Leeds United have been handed a golden chance to snap up top players after French club Lyon dropped to the second tier.
With huge debts and a financial mess, Lyon may be forced to sell big names and Leeds are watching closely.
The Whites want five or more big signings this summer as they prepare for life back in the Premier League.
With Jaka Bijol already coming in, and striker and keeper targets lined up, this Lyon situation could open up some real deals.
Lyon in Trouble: Leeds Watching Closely
Lyon have been sent down to Ligue 2 due to financial problems. They are appealing the decision, but it might not help.
The club’s owner, John Textor, revealed over £422 million in debt, which has worried French football bosses.
Lyon still finished sixth in Ligue 1 last season, so they’ve got good players.
But with their money problems, they may be forced to sell and Leeds United could swoop in.
Four Lyon Players Leeds Could Sign
Lucas Perri, Brazil’s Next Keeper?
Perri was Lyon’s main goalie last season. He kept 10 clean sheets in 33 games and stopped 74% of shots on target.
His performances even put him close to a Brazil national team debut.
Leeds are looking for a new keeper. Perri, aged 27, could be a good option if Meslier leaves or has strong competition in goal.
Abner Vinícius da Silva Santos, A Full-Back Option
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With Firpo and Byram possibly leaving, Leeds need full-backs.
Abner, 25, plays left-back and has four Brazil caps. He’s decent defensively, winning 65% of his tackles last season, better than Firpo.
He didn’t score or assist much, but his solid defensive style could help Leeds tighten up at the back.
Malick Fofana, A Winger for the Future
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Fofana scored 11 and assisted 6 in 41 games. He’s only 20 and full of energy, though his finishing still needs work.
Only 48% of his shots hit the target, and he takes fewer shots than most top wingers.
If Leeds want a young talent with big upside, he’s a name to watch. But maybe not the first choice right now.
Georges Mikautadze, The Star Forward
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This one’s a bit of a gamble, but could pay off big. Mikautadze, 23, got 17 goals and 11 assists last season.
He plays for Georgia and even scored against PSG. He’s not tall (5’9″) and isn’t great in the air, winning just 27% of headers.
His shot accuracy is only 42%, and his expected goals (xG) shows he scores about what he should not. Leeds might prefer a more clinical striker.
With Lyon needing cash and Leeds looking for upgrades, this could be a perfect storm. Leeds has a big summer ahead and some smart shopping in France might be just what’s needed.
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