La Liga pundit Kevin Campbell has issued a glowing verdict regarding Leeds United’s pursuit of Huesca defender Javi Galán, as reported by Football Insider.
The Lowdown: Galan only behind Messi in 2020/21 completed dribbles
As Leeds United step up their summer recruitment drive, they have earmarked the 26-year-old left-back as an ideal addition, amidst the news that positional counterparts Ezgjan Alioski and Barry Douglas are set to depart Elland Road [Leeds Live].
Ever-present for La Liga minnows SD Huesca in 2020/21, the Spaniard made 37 appearances for his current employers, registering a solitary goal and two assists [Transfermarkt].
Astonishingly, Galán has completed more dribbles per game in La Liga than every player bar Lionel Messi; averaging 3.3 successful take-ons per outing this campaign [WhoScored].
In comparison, Raphinha, Leeds' top dribbler, only managed around 1.9 dribbles per match this season [WhoScored]. Given how tidy the Brazilian is with the ball at his feet, that says an awful lot about Galán's incredible skill.
The Latest: Campbell quick to endorse potential move
Quoted to cost the Whites just £3.5 million due to a release clause in Galán's contract, Campbell was quick to support the prospect of the left-sider coming to ply his trade in the Premier League. In an interview with Football Insider, he stated:
“For that price, he is an absolute bargain.
“I have seen him play on numerous occasions and he is a decent player. I think he will do OK in the Premier League, I really do."
The Verdict: Campbell is spot on
Given Galan's incredible dribbling statistics, he is clearly a supremely talented player, so it is difficult to disagree with Campbell's verdict.
Tailor-made for Marcelo Bielsa’s high-octane style of football, Galán’s ability to progress the ball at pace would act as an important outlet for the Yorkshire club if a long pass is not available to trigger a fast break.
Bargains are hard to find in modern day football, so Leeds United should look to seize this opportunity as they attempt to build on their commendable 9th place Premier League season [BBC].
In other news, Carlton Palmer believes Leeds United should target an international star.