In a recent report, Calciomercato has revealed that Leicester City‘s January target, Otavio, will be available for free when his contract with FC Porto runs out this summer. However, if the Foxes decide to rekindle their interest in the Brazilian attacker, they could face competition in the form of AC Milan in pursuit of the player (via Calciomercato).
Otavio’s Excellent Form For Porto This Season
Otavio is enjoying an impressive campaign at the Estádio do Dragão as he has been responsible for producing a run of eye-catching displays as the primary attacking midfielder in Sérgio Conceição’s first-team. The 26-year-old has featured in 29 matches for the Portuguese giants this term, netting five goals and grabbing eight assists in multiple competitions.
The Joao Pessoa-born talent has influenced the game in both halves by averaging 1.8 tackles, 0.7 interceptions, 0.5 clearances, 1.3 shots, 1.4 key passes and 1.6 dribbles per game in the Liga NOS and the UEFA Champions League this season. The Brazilian sensation has even been tidy with his ball-distribution after making 78% of his attempted passes in both those competitions (stats via whoscored).
The way Otavio has been playing this season, it makes sense for the Foxes to reignite their interest in acquiring his services in the summer. However, they could find it difficult to compete with AC Milan for the player unless they can secure UEFA Champions League football at the end of this campaign.
What Will The Brazilian Playmaker Bring To The King Power Stadium?
Otavio is a deceptively quick player who can make some driving runs towards the opposition penalty box. He possesses the vision to pick out a decisive pass in the final third and can also contribute by scoring some important goals for his team.
The Brazilian has established himself amongst the best dribblers in the Liga NOS because of his low centre of gravity, close control and composure on the ball. Standing at 1.72m, he can be easily overpowered in the air but deserves credit for working hard to help his teammates out at the back when required.
Should The Foxes Move In For Otavio This Summer?
An attacking midfielder of Otavio’s quality will be a decent option for Brendan Rodgers to consider during the summer transfer period. At 26, he is currently playing at his peak and would undoubtedly add a lot of quality to Leicester’s first-team.
Otavio will also offer some healthy competition for James Maddison, Harvey Barnes and Youri Tielemans due to his versatility to play in multiple positions across the midfield. He primarily operates in the number ten position but can also fill in as a wide player on either flank if needed. All in all, the Foxes should think about going back in for Otavio when the transfer window reopens later this year as he has what it takes to be a success story at the King Power.
