In a recent report, Marca has claimed that Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman prefers Olympique Lyonnais forward Memphis Depay over Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero with both strikers set to become free agents at the end of this campaign. It is understood that Aguero wants to join the Catalan outfit but Koeman would instead opt for his countryman Depay whom he has previously managed from their time together with the Dutch national team (via Marca).
Depay’s Decent Form At The Groupama Stadium This Season
Depay is experiencing another productive season in France and has firmly established himself as one of the most important members of Rudi Garcia’s first-team by putting in several productive performances for them so far. The Moordrecht-born sensation has registered 15 goals and earned nine assists in 31 appearances for Lyon this term on all fronts.
The Dutch attacker has caught the eye by averaging 2.8 shots, 2.6 key passes, 1.2 crosses and 1.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in this Ligue 1 campaign. However, Depay needs to be more careful when distributing the ball after making 75.3% of his attempted passes in the top tier of French football (stats via whoscored).
Now that the Lyon star is set to become a free agent soon, Barca would have a good chance to recruit him this summer. Koeman would be the perfect man to get the best out of him at the Nou Camp as long as the Catalans can make enough room for him in their wage bill.
What Does The Dutch Forward Bring To The Table?
Depay has a lot of pace to burn and can lose his marker with ease in the attacking third. He boasts excellent ball-control, agility and dribbling ability that allows him to cause a lot of headaches for the opposition centre-backs.
More importantly, the 62-time Netherlands international is a consistent goal-scorer at the highest level and can also contribute by getting his fair share of assists. He is a technically gifted footballer who is good enough to lead the line at the Nou Camp week in week out.
Is Depay The Right Choice For The Catalans?
Depay has proven himself over the past few seasons that he has what it takes to be taste success at the top level. At 27, the Dutchman is playing at his peak and would enhance the overall quality of Koeman’s frontline. He would also soften the blow of losing Lionel Messi if the Argentine superstar decides to seal a move away from Catalonia this summer. With all things considered, Depay’s quality and goal-threat make him a great choice for Barca to consider during this summer transfer period.
