In a recent report, Sport has stated that Barcelona are inching closer towards signing Olympique Lyonnais forward Memphis Depay, who will be a free agent later this summer. It is understood the Catalans see the Dutch frontman as an ideal signing for Ronald Koeman in this offseason (via Sport).
Depay’s Decent Numbers At Lyon This Season
Depay is enjoying another decent season at the Groupama Stadium because he has produced a run of match-winning performances as a key member of Rudi Garcia’s attack. The Dutch marksman has banged in 15 goals and grabbed nine assists in 31 matches for the French club this term in multiple competitions.
The 27-year-old deserves a pat on the back for being consistent in the attacking third based on his average of 2.8 shots, 2.6 key passes, 1.2 crosses and 1.9 dribbles per game in Ligue 1. However, his accuracy when distributing the ball has got a lot of room for improvement as he has only made 75.3% of his attempted passes in the French top-flight (stats via whoscored).
With Depay’s contract with Lyon set to expire at the end of this campaign, Barca should try everything they can to lure him to the Nou Camp as Koeman could get the best out of his countryman in the years to come.
What Will The Dutch International Add To Ronald Koeman’s Side?
Depay is a pacey forward who loves to make some well-timed runs in behind the opponent’s backline. He has a good football IQ that helps him get into some dangerous areas inside the opposition penalty area. The 60-time Dutch international can also hold the ball up well to get others involved in the final third. He has continued to score and set up goals consistently at the highest level, so he will be a welcome addition to Barca’s squad this summer.
Depay will add plenty of goals and creativity to Koeman’s attacking department and could form a decent partnership with Antoine Griezmann at Catalonia. At 27, the Dutch sensation is playing at his prime at the moment and would be an excellent signing for the Spanish giants ahead of the new campaign. Even though he won’t be able to fill Lionel Messi’s big shoes, yet he will definitely add a lot of quality to the Catalans frontline.
The Moordrecht-born talent has a good relationship with Koeman from their time together with the Dutch national side. Hence, there is no doubt that he will fit into the Barca manager’s playing style quite well at the Nou Camp in the coming seasons.
