Transfer story
Paul Clement’s Swansea City has made waves in the transfer market after their weekend loss to Manchester United. The Swans lost their trusted man Gylfi Sigurdsson to Everton last week. Hence, the Welsh side is trying their best to fill their midfield void with several options.
Reports have stated that Hull City’s midfielder Sam Clucas is close to completing his transfer to Swansea. Sam Clucas was one of the few shining lights in Hull City’s disappointing campaign last time. He played tirelessly in the midfield and always ensured his team was in the game with his combative performances.
Player’s stats
Sam Clucas missed only one game during the entire season last year. Despite playing in the defensive midfield position, he scored three goals and created one. His reading of the game is very strong. He also averaged around 41.54 passes per match.
His defensive abilities are too good for a Championship player. Despite playing against teams of better quality, he had a tackle success rate of 67%. His average 2.37 tackles in every match that is an impressive statistic for a midfielder.
The 26-year old also made 1.45 interceptions in every match. Though he isn’t the tallest, he nearly won 1.05 aerial duels per game. He also made 66 clearances and blocked 17 shots during his team’s stay in the Premier League.
His only weakness is his indiscipline while defending. He got booked nine times during the season. He made 22 fouls in the 37 matches.
What does he bring to the table?
Swansea City got a timely reminder of their weaknesses in the 4-0 drubbing by Manchester United. Gylfi Sigurdsson’s departure and Fernando Llorente’s injury has left huge voids in Swansea’s starting XI. They did well to keep United at the bay for the better part of the match. However, Marouane Fellaini’s introduction led Paul Pogba to play in an advanced position and from then on, the Red Devils were rampant in their approach.
Sam Clucas’ introduction would provide an extra defensive cover to the side. His tough tackling skills are hard to pass by. Swansea might be getting a quality midfielder in Sam Clucas if they are able to sign him.
Is he an able replacement?
Paul Clement has said earlier that Sigurdsson’s departure has left them with plenty of funds. They can now use these funds to reinforce their team. According to ESPN, Sam Clucas would be available at a price range around £12 million. In this inflated market, a player of Sam Clucas’ quality looks like an absolute bargain.
Hull City’s manager Leonid Slutsky confirmed that Clucas is close to joining another club. Swansea might be relishing their prospects of landing this talented player.
