According to Olympique et Lyonnais, Leeds United are keen on signing Maxwel Cornet. A few weeks ago, the Premier League outfit had even submitted a bid of somewhere around €12 million for the attacker. However, it appears the offer does not satisfy Olympique Lyon who are holding out for a higher fee for their wide attacker, whose contract in Lyon expires in 2023.
What Is Maxwel Cornet All About?
Formerly of FC Metz, Maxwel Cornet has been a member of the Olympique Lyon side since 2015, when he joined the club for almost half a million euros. He enjoyed his OL breakthrough in the subsequent 2015/16 campaign, notching up 31 league appearances.
Since then, Cornet has represented the side over 251 times in all competitions, scoring 51 goals while chipping in with 29 assists. Although a left-back by trade, the Ivorian initially began his Lyon career as an out and out winger. In fact, he had been playing as a wide attacker throughout his career until the arrival of Rudi Garcia.
The former Marseille boss has used Cornet as a left wing-back in his three-at-the-back system. In addition to the left-back position, Cornet can operate at right-wing and even as a supporting forward if required. It is indicative of his versatility.
However, what makes the 24-year-old such a hot prospect at Olympique Lyon is his explosive nature. He often tends to use his pace to good effect, and operate as a runner out wide. It makes him quite a weapon on the counter. The Ivorian has a healthy knack for scoring goals as well, making him a well-rounded wide player.
Is He A Good Option For Leeds United?
Leeds United are in the market for reinforcements in the attacking and indeed the left-back department. Maxwel Cornet can provide both due to his versatility and might turn out to be an excellent direct replacement for Ezgjan Alioski.
The North Macedonian international’s departure has created a massive void, especially in the left-back unit, with Marcelo Bielsa hoping to utilise Stuart Dallas in midfield next season. Cornet might not be a bad option as he has the attacking prowess to further aid the Leeds attackers in the final third.
In addition to his versatility and explosive nature, the Ivorian’s aggressive nature might fit in well with Bielsa’s tactical philosophy. Leeds United, though, might need to add a viable alternative for Cornet in their ranks, as the Lyon star is often criticised for his lack of consistency.
The 24-year-old is also prone to losing the ball under pressure and offering very little creativity to the table. It might make him a potentially risky option, especially if the Whites splash anything more than the €15 million mark.
