Liverpool transfer news: The midfield powerhouse to replace Lucas?
One of the catalysts of Liverpool’s resurgence over the past couple of months was the change of system that resulted in Lucas Leiva being recalled to the starting XI.
The Brazilian offered great protection to the Reds’ backline, but his continue struggles with injury are an on-going concern for boss Brendan Rodgers.
Fortunately for Rodgers though, he may have the ideal solution staring him in the face in the shape of Bordeaux captain Lamine Sane.
With the latest on the defensive midfielder is talkSPORT’s transfer spotlight…
Full name: Ludovic Lamine Sane
Date of birth: 22 March, 1987
Birthplace: Villeneuve-sur-lot, France
Position: Defensive midfielder/Defender
Club: Bordeaux
International: Senegal (12 caps/0 goals)
What’s the latest?
With the Redmen reportedly in the market for new blood in the middle, they may not have to look too far, with Bordeaux captain Sane all-but gift-wrapping himself for the club, by openly admitting a desire to play for them. In a recent interview the 27-year-old said: “It is true that I have always been drawn to England. As for a club - Liverpool. I have always said Liverpool, since my first ever interview. It is a club that I really like.”
The nitty gritty
1. Sane’s rise to prominence is an interesting story, with the 27-year-old very much a late discovery in the prism of football. Up until the age of 21, he was plying his trade in France’s amateur ranks, playing for Championnat de France amateur club RCO Agde and then US Lormont (who he spent six seasons with as a youngster).
2. Following just one senior season with Lormont, Sane had caught the eye of Ligue 1 big guns Bordeaux and having impressed then-boss Laurent Blanc, Sane was offered a three-year professional deal, that saw him move up five divisions.
3. Much like his overall career, his early years at Bordeaux saw gradual progress, with a spell in the club’s youth side followed by promotion to the senior ranks as back-up to French international Alou Diarra. Now though, Sane is considered one of Bordeaux’s most important players, with the 27-year-old now club captain.
4. He isn’t the only professional footballer in the family, with his younger borther Salif playing for Bundesliga side Hannover 96. Despite being born in France, both represent Senegal at international level.
5. Sane’s strong defensive attributes have resulted in him being utilised both as a central defender and a defensive midfielder, although it is fair to say that he is most comfortable and effective in midfield.
Video evidence
Liverpool fans, do you need to replace Lucas Leiva? Comment below…