Leicester City are now in the transfer market for a left-back after selling Ben Chilwell recently and one name on their preferred list of replacements is that of Ajax star Nicolas Tagliafico.
A story from Sky Sports claims that Brendan Rodgers sees Tagliafico as the right man for his project at King Power next season.
He is also keeping an eye on Atalanta’s Robin Gosens. Both Nicolas Tagliafico and Gosens are valued at around £40m. So should Leicester make a move for the Ajax man?
Nicolas Tagliafico And His Career
The Argentine-born defender moved to Europe for the first time with Ajax in 2018 and took no time to cement a place in the first team.
Playing mostly at left-back, Tagliafico has 12 goals and 15 assists in 99 appearances across all competitions in the Netherlands and is regarded as one of the best in his role in Eredivisie.
The 27-year-old, who can also play at centre-back, is a gifted footballer, who can make things happen at both ends of the field.
His understanding of the game and ability to keep hold of the ball even under pressure makes him a good fit for the English game. But what makes him an attractive candidate for Rodgers is his ability to turn defence into attack quickly.
Ajax love to play out from the back and Nicolas Tagliafico is crucial in their build-up play. He is a composed passer of the ball and can also set up chances with through balls and crosses and will be dangerous in the final third.
The former Real Murcia loanee is a versatile and all-round full-back, with loads of experience at the highest stage. So even at his price, he will be a huge asset for the Foxes.
Right Man For Leicester?
Chilwell was a regular in the first team last season for Rodgers and losing him will be a big blow. His first-team back-up, Christian Fuchs is now 34 and has just a year left on his current deal with the club.
Rodgers did see young Luke Thomas sign a long term contract with the club recently, and Thomas may have a role in the first team next season. But at the moment, Rodgers does not have a first-choice left-back, making Tagliafico a necessity for Leicester City.
The manager also has James Justin, a right-back by trait, who showed enough promise in this role but Tagliafico is an established star and could be a key part of the squad next season.
At 27, he is in his prime as a footballer and his versatility could be an asset for Leicester City. So, even at £40m, Nicolas Tagliafico currently looks a necessity at King Power.
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