According to reports, Huddersfield Town are weighing up a move for Ligue 1 side, Rennes defender, Dimitri Cavare, as manager David Wagner seeks a proper right-back before the transfer window closes. The sudden desperation emerges because of a hip injury to Martin Cranie that is likely to keep him out for up to eight weeks, leaving Tommy Smith as the only option in that role.
Wagner believes in shuffling his squad, which pretty much explains the huge number of signings he decided to make this summer. The Terriers have gone shoulder to shoulder with Everton in terms of recruitment and Cavare is likely to become their tenth signing of the season.
The 22-year-old former French Under-20 international had a trial period with the club recently and has seemingly impressed the German boss, who is reportedly prepared to pay around £1.8 million to bring him to John Smith’s Stadium.
Wagner has brought in nine players so far- Jonas Lössl from Mainz, Zanka from FC Copenhagen, Scott Malone from Fulham, Jason Davidson from FC Groningen, Danny Williams from Reading FC, Aaron Mooy from Manchester City (deal made permanent), Tom Ince from Derby County, Elias Kachunga FC Ingolstadt, Steve Mounie from Montpellier, Laurent Depoitre from FC Porto and Kasey Palmer from Chelsea (loan).
Despite being a centre half by nature, Cranie was called on to deputize for Smith time and again last season and he did it perfectly. Now with the level taking a huge leap, Wagner wants specialists in all positions and solely relying on Smith for the right back’s role would be a big risk. Cavare could an effective backup for him and would hardly have to worry about regular chances with Wagner as the manager.
The 22-year-old started his career with French side Lens before some impressive displays earned him a call-up from Rennes in 2015 for £2.7 million. However, his career took an unfortunate step back. Following the transfer, he was allowed to stay with Stade Bollaert-Delelis side on loan for the rest of the 2014/15 season, where he suffered the dreadful cruciate ligament injury.
As is always the case with such injuries, he was out for over a year and could play just five times the next season for Rennes.
Tommy Smith remains the first choice by all means following his heroics for Huddersfield last season as Cavare would need to improve his offensive traits. The Terriers start their campaign with a tricky campaign to Selhurst Park, which could see the result going either way.
