In a recent report, Le Parisien has provided an update on Barcelona‘s pursuit of Olympique Lyonnais attacker Memphis Depay. It has been claimed that the Catalans will face competition from Paris Saint-Germain in pursuit of the Dutch international. Two months ago, Fabrizio Romano revealed that Barca had already reached an agreement with the player but would need to raise funds to engineer a move for Depay during the January transfer window.
Depay’s Impressive Form At Lyon This Season
The 26-year-old has made an impressive start to this campaign after producing a string of productive displays as the focal point of Rudi Garcia’s attack. Depay has banged in six goals and provided four assists in 14 appearances for Spurs this term across all fronts.
The Dutch striker had done remarkably well to be consistent with his attacking contributions as he is averaging 2.5 shots, 2.5 key passes, 1.6 crosses and 2.1 dribbles per game in the Ligue 1 this season. However, his ball-distribution can improve a bit, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 76.9% in the French top tier (stats via whoscored).
Based on Depay’s recent form, it is no wonder that PSG are interested in acquiring his services. Therefore, Barca would have to move quickly if they are to win the transfer chase for the player when the window commences at the start of next month.
What Does The Dutch International Bring To The Table?
Depay boasts electric pace which helps him to dribble past the opposition defenders with ease when running at full swing in the attacking third. He has excelled as a centre-forward under Rudi Garcia’s stewardship over the past 18 months.
The Dutchman has established himself as one of the top performers at the Groupama Stadium by scoring and creating goals regularly in the Ligue 1. He is also a deceptively strong striker who tends to work his socks off when leading the charge for his side up top.
What Should Be Koeman’s Play Here?
Currently, Barca boss Ronald Koeman is in dire need of adding more quality to his attacking department. Hence, someone as versatile as Depay, who can play anywhere across the frontline, will be a welcome addition to the Catalans squad if Koeman can find a way to fund a move to bring him to the Nou Camp.
Now that PSG has emerged as a contender for the player’s signature, the Catalans might find themselves financially overmatched as they simply don’t have the resources to go on a bidding war with the French club. With all things considered, Koeman should only make a move for Depay if it is financially viable for him to so. Otherwise, he will be better off switching his attention to some of his other offensive targets during the winter transfer period.
