According to the Turkish news outlet, Aksam, as cited by Sport Witness, Galatasaray are prepared to cash in on Christian Luyindama this summer. The Turkish giants signed the defender for just €5m but are looking to make a quick profit. They value Luyindama at around €12m and are waiting for Aston Villa to submit an offer.
Luyindama’s spell at Galatasaray
Luyindama initially arrived at Galatasaray in a season-long loan deal from Standard Liege at the start of this year. The Congolese centre-back was quick to make an impact on the Turkish top flight, featuring in 11 league matches during the remainder of the 2018/19 campaign.
Luyindama did exceptionally well to fix the void that was left by the departure of Ozan Kabak. He built a formidable defensive partnership with Marcao during the second half of last season as Galatasaray ended up boasting the second-best defensive record in the league. But most importantly, it helped the Aslanlar secure their 22nd Turkish league title.
However, coach Fateh Terim, it seems, is prepared to put his fate on young guns like Gokay Guney, Sefa Ozdemir and Valentine Ozornwafor in favour of making a quick profit for Luyindama.
What can he bring to the table?
Luyindama is primarily known for his massive 1.91m frame that makes him an intimidating figure for any attacker. It also gives him a considerable advantage when it comes to aerial duels, with the defender winning 5.2 headed duels per game last season. He has also completed one tackle per game with a success rate of 66%.
Furthermore, the Congolese international has completed a whopping 4.7 clearances per game, which is indicative of his doggedness at the back. He is a good passer of the ball as well, attaining a pass completion rate of 86%.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
Should Aston Villa make a move for Luyindama?
Luyindama will be a welcome addition to the Aston Villa defence that has already gone through a major overhaul this summer. While Tyrone Mings has returned, the Villans have brought in young players like Ezri Konsa and Kortney Hause.
The Galatasaray defender, in that regard, could provide some needed experience. His toughness at the back will also tune in well with an Aston Villa side that are expected to employ a deep defensive lineup next season. And for a fee of just €12m, he could be a smart piece of investment for the newly-promoted Premier League outfit.
