Report: Leicester Target 4.75m Feyenoord Versatile Defender

Leicester City are exploring a move for Feyenoord centre-back David Hancko, reports The Mail. The 26-year-old Slovakian international has been linked with a quick reunion with future Liverpool manager Arne Slot, but the Anfield club are looking at defenders with a younger profile, such as Lille’s Leny Yoro.

Leicester City’s interest in David Hancko is a strategic move to strengthen their defensive line. Hancko, who cost Feyenoord £4.75m from Sparta Prague in 2022, has two years left on his contract. Its versatility is a key asset; can also fit in at left back and has 37 caps for his country. Furthermore, his ability to score goals from set pieces and open play – 10 goals in the last two seasons – adds an extra dimension to his value.

As Leicester revamp their squad, they are also grappling with alleged breaches of profit and sustainability rules. This makes strategic acquisitions like Hancko even more critical. The club must balance strengthening the squad with maintaining financial stability.

Another layer of Leicester’s current strategy is the uncertainty surrounding their manager, Enzo Maresca. Maresca, who led Leicester to promotion as Championship champions, has been shortlisted by Chelsea. With a release clause of just under £10m, his potential departure could have a significant impact on Leicester’s plans.

In short, Leicester City’s pursuit of David Hancko appears to be a calculated move to improve their defensive options while navigating financial challenges and potential management changes.

David Hancko, the Slovakian centre-back who plies his trade at Feyenoord, has attracted the attention of many top clubs, including Leicester City. A closer look at his performance data, provided by Fbref, reveals why Hancko is such a coveted player.

David Hancko’s percentile ranks against other center backs over the last 365 days demonstrate his extraordinary skills, especially in attacking and possession metrics. Hancko scores an impressive 99th percentile in expected non-penalty goals (npxG) and assists. This indicates not only his ability to generate scoring opportunities, but also his knack for providing crucial final passes. NpxG + xAG (expected goals plus assists) further underscores his offensive contributions, placing him among the elite in his position.

In terms of possession, Hancko excels with a 99th percentile rank in passing and progressive carries, showing his ability to move the ball up the field effectively. His passing accuracy is also commendable, with a pass completion rate in the 81st percentile. These stats highlight Hancko’s pivotal role in the game’s transition from defense to attack.

While Hancko’s attacking and possession stats are outstanding, his defensive stats paint a mixed picture. His aerial duels won are in the 93rd percentile, which is crucial for a central defender. However, other defensive actions such as tackles, interceptions, and blocks are relatively lower, with percentiles of 38, 10, and 8, respectively. This suggests that while Hancko is competent in certain defensive duties, there could be areas that require improvement or a potential adjustment to his defensive role within a team’s tactical setup.

David Hancko’s performance data paints the picture of a modern centre-back with significant attacking and possession capabilities. His high percentile ranks in crucial metrics make him an invaluable asset to any team looking to improve their defensive line while adding an offensive edge. While Leicester City are considering a move for Hancko, these stats make a compelling case for his potential impact in the Premier League.

Credit Fbref for detailed statistical analysis.