After plenty of injuries this season for Liverpool, most of which have come in the form of their defensive options, the Reds have been linked to a number of defenders ahead of the January transfer window.
One name, in particular, that has crept up has been that of 29-year-old Aissa Mandi of Real Betis, with the Algerian currently valued at around £9 million on Transfermarkt.
So far this season, Mandi has played relatively well with his statistics showing him to be a well balanced central defender who could provide great quality in depth for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Would Aissa Mandi be a good fit for the Reds?
Yes
No
After 7 league appearances, Mandi has averaged 1.1 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, 1.7 clearances, and 0.4 blocks. The defender has also shown himself to be a good passer of the ball, with a 90.2% pass success percentage – something that would suit Klopp’s style and what he demands from his defence, all of which are good passers of the ball.
I think Mandi would be a good fit for the club – he clearly has the quality to his game and knows how to defend well, as well as possessing a great ability with the ball at his feet.
It is key to remember that the Algerian would be coming in to provide greater depth for the squad and not as a replacement for key players such as Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip, or Fabinho – but rather to enhance and expand our current options after the departure of Dejan Lovren in the summer.
All in all I think it would be a great approach from the club given his stats and track record – and although he may be slightly older than some of the other options on the market right now, Mandi would no doubt provide experience and quality in abundance for a player that will be signed to provide cover and depth rather than a first-team starter.
What do you think about the link to Aissa Mandi, Reds? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below…