The January switch window is shaping as much as be a pivotal second for Ligue 1’s rising defensive star, Abdukodir Khusanov. The Lens centre-back has garnered curiosity from prime European golf equipment, with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United amongst these preserving a detailed eye on the 20-year-old Uzbekistan worldwide, in keeping with .
Khusanov’s Rise By the Ranks
Abdukodir Khusanov’s journey from Energetik-BGU Minsk in Belarus to turning into a breakout star in Ligue 1 is a testomony to his willpower and uncooked expertise. Signed by Lens for a modest €100,000 simply 18 months in the past, Khusanov has turn into an everyday fixture in Will Nonetheless’s crew, beginning 9 of their 13 league video games this season.
Nonetheless, Lens’ Belgian-born Briton head coach, has proven immense belief in Khusanov, even recalling him instantly after a suspension for an important victory in opposition to Reims. Able to taking part in as a centre-back or a defensive midfielder, Khusanov has confirmed to be a flexible and dependable possibility in Lens’ defensive setup.
Lens’ monitor file of creating and promoting expertise provides weight to Khusanov’s worth. Current examples embody Loïs Openda, who moved to RB Leipzig for €46 million, and Elye Wahi, who joined Marseille for €30 million. With Khusanov now on the radar of top-flight English golf equipment, his estimated £25 million valuation might climb even increased.
Why Newcastle and Tottenham Are
For Newcastle United, Khusanov represents a possibility to spend money on a promising younger expertise who might thrive in Eddie Howe’s system. Identified for his potential to adapt shortly, Khusanov’s expertise in Ligue 1 suggests he’s prepared for the physicality and tactical calls for of the Premier League.
Tottenham, however, face a extra instant want for defensive reinforcements. Accidents to Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have left supervisor Ange Postecoglou with restricted choices. Whereas their latest 4-0 win in opposition to Manchester Metropolis showcased Ben Davies’ adaptability in central defence, Spurs want depth to maintain their spectacular marketing campaign.
“Khusanov is an thrilling younger defender who has the potential to turn into a key participant in any prime European facet,” stated one scout conversant in his performances. His potential to learn the sport, mixed with composure on the ball, makes him a pretty proposition for each Newcastle and Tottenham.
Lens’ Technique and Khusanov’s Potential Transfer
Lens are below no instant stress to promote, however their historical past of capitalising on participant growth suggests they’ll entertain provides for the correct value. Khusanov’s development below Will Nonetheless, mixed together with his latest call-ups for the Uzbekistan nationwide crew, has elevated his profile.
Paris Saint-Germain and different European heavyweights have additionally expressed curiosity, however the Premier League’s monetary clout might give Newcastle and Tottenham an edge.
A January transfer to England may very well be transformative for Khusanov, offering a platform to showcase his expertise on a world stage. Nonetheless, transitioning from Ligue 1 to the Premier League isn’t any small feat, and golf equipment might want to rigorously assess whether or not he is able to make an instantaneous affect.
Abdukodir Khusanov’s efficiency information during the last 12 months, analysed by Fbref, highlights his distinctive profile as a younger centre-back. With 1,498 minutes logged, the 20-year-old Uzbekistan worldwide demonstrates a mix of defensive resilience and glimpses of attacking potential, making him a pretty goal for Premier League golf equipment like Newcastle and Tottenham.
Khusanov’s defensive metrics are distinctive, notably his percentile rankings for clearances (87), blocks (99), and tackles plus interceptions (67). These figures point out an aggressive and dependable presence on the again. His potential to learn the sport and nullify opposition assaults is underscored by his 67% success price in tackling dribblers, an important asset in high-stakes eventualities.
His aerial duels are one other power, with a strong 67% win price. Whereas not among the many tallest defenders, Khusanov makes use of positioning and timing to dominate within the air, including one other layer of safety to his crew’s defensive construction.
Possession Play Highlights Areas for Progress
In possession, Khusanov’s numbers present promise however counsel room for growth. His cross completion price of 51% is under common for contemporary centre-backs who are sometimes tasked with initiating build-up play. Progressive passing (22) and carries (28) additionally rank low, indicating a deal with defensive duties over risk-taking. Nonetheless, his willingness to try progressive actions suggests potential for progress in additional possession-based methods.
Abdukodir Khusanov’s efficiency metrics underline why golf equipment are eager on his signature. Whereas he excels defensively, his information hints at untapped potential in possession. For any Premier League facet keen to nurture him, Khusanov might evolve into a whole defender.
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From a Newcastle fan’s perspective, that is exactly the kind of signing that aligns with the membership’s ambitions. The Magpies have already confirmed adept at figuring out and creating expertise, and Khusanov matches the mould of a younger, versatile participant with a excessive ceiling.
With Champions League aspirations now firmly inside attain, Newcastle want squad depth to compete on a number of fronts. A participant like Khusanov might thrive below Eddie Howe’s tutelage, studying from skilled defenders like Fabian Schär and Sven Botman whereas steadily incomes a spot within the beginning XI.
“Signing a younger, hungry expertise like Khusanov exhibits that Newcastle are enthusiastic about the longer term,” one supporter remarked on a fan discussion board. “He’s precisely the kind of participant who can take us to the following stage.”
For Spurs, Khusanov represents a long-term funding that would clear up their defensive complications. Though Postecoglou’s facet are having fun with a robust begin to the season, latest accidents have uncovered vulnerabilities of their backline. Including a participant with Khusanov’s adaptability and potential may very well be the lacking piece of their quest for silverware.
In conclusion, Abdukodir Khusanov’s potential switch to the Premier League could be an thrilling growth for each Tottenham and Newcastle. Whether or not he chooses to affix Newcastle’s bold challenge or shore up Tottenham’s defence, his future seems to be shiny. For followers of both membership, the January window can not come quickly sufficient.