The search for a Jannik Vestergaard replacement could be over for Southampton. According to a report from Skysports’ Gianluca Di Marzio, Southampton are close to securing the signature of Brazilian centre-back Lyanco. The 24-year-old defender would join Southampton following a four-year stint in Italy with Torino.
Southampton Set to Sign Torino Defender Lyanco
Vestegaard Replacement
Also reporting on the transfer, Fabrizio Romano stated that the centre-back chose to join the Saints in order to secure a chance in the Premier League. According to Romano, Southampton were able to beat Spanish club’s Celta Vigo and Real Betis for the Brazilian’s signature. The signing also comes at a bargain price of just €7 million, a great deal for a club like Southampton.
In the market for a centre-back, the Saints have been linked to multiple players since the departure of Jannik Vestergaard earlier this month. It now seems that they have zeroed in on their preferred target. According to Hampshirelive’s Tom Leach, Lyanco was the top name on Southampton’s list of potential replacements. The club are now hopeful of completing the deal before the transfer window slams shut.
With a potential price of just €7 million, this move appears to be a low risk one for Southampton. Building their first team on these types of moves, they have little financial risk should Lyanco prove to be ineffective in the Premier League. However, if the Brazilian impresses with the club, this move has the potential to help the Saints progress up the table this season.
Brazilian Defender Looks to Continue Development
The 24-year-old centre-back will be looking to continue his development and growth in Europe with this move. Making 25 appearances for Italian side Torino last season, the Brazilian defender regained his first team position with the club after spending the previous season on-loan with Bologna. Overall, the centre-back has made 66 appearances combined since making the move to Italy back in 2017.
Prior to joining Torino, Lyanco was a member of Brazilian giants Sao Paulo. A former member of the club’s youth academy, Lyanco made just 12 senior side appearances for the Brazilian club before securing his move to Europe. The centre-back has also played multiple times for the Brazilian U20 and U23 national teams.
Wanting to move to the Premier League, Lyanco will now find himself under pressure to perform this season. Should he secure the move, he will have big shoes to fill at Southampton. Depending on his performance, the Saints could be looking at either a mid-table finish or another season battling against relegation.
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