FIVE LEFT-BACKS CARDIFF SHOULD CONSIDER THIS SUMMER

Erol Bulut is keen to add two defensive players before the window slams shut. The only defensive position that causes debate amongst the fan base is typically Left-Back. Jamilu Collins splits the fan base with some rating the Nigerian highly, with some not rating JC as highly.

So there’s a likelihood Cardiff will be in the market for a Left-Back this summer. To provide much needed competition.

Omar Richards (26)

Omar Richards in action for Olympiacos.

Club: Nottingham Forest

Fee: Loan

This would rely on Bulut using his Forest connections. Richards is unlikely to get many minutes this season, with the likes of Ola Aina and Harry Toffolo ahead of the 26 year-old. Richards enjoyed a decent season on loan with Olympiacos last season, making fourteen appearances. The left-back is known for carrying the ball up the pitch, with Richards specialing in one-vs-one’s both offensively and defensively. Richards also possess a good passing range and is good at retaining possession. The only negative perhaps is Richards has struggled with injuries in recent years, so perhaps something to keep an eye on. Would be a great coup.

Brandon Williams (23)

Brandon Williams in action for Manchester United.

Club: N/A

Fee: Free

After an impressive breakout season, Williams has failed really to find consistency, and now finds himself as a free agent. Williams has had fairly decent spells at both Norwich and Ipswich, but failed to make a significant impact. Williams excels defensively, and reads the game really well, The 24 year-old likes to get involved and is willing to put his body where others won’t. Williams is fairly decent on the ball with a decent passing range. A concern could be Williams’ discipline but with the right management that can be felt with. Williams is right-footed which could make him ideal for Bulut’s preferred inverted fullback role. I do believe any move for Williams this summer is obviously wage dependent, as he may ask for a good package money wise.

Giacomo Ricci (27)

Giacomo Ricci in action for Bari.

Club: Bari

Fee: £700K

Ricci has been performing at a good level for the last few years in Serie B. Ricci is comfortable both offensively and defensively. Ricci was in the top three for most key passes per game in Serie B last season from a left-back, as well as being top for most successful dribbles per game for a left-back. Ricci completed the most tackles per game from a left-back, and was also in top three for interceptions per game from left-back’s in Serie B. This proves Ricci’s ability and that he’s a more than capable footballer. With just a year left on his Bari contract, it could be a great pickup.

Owen Beck (21)

Owen Beck warming up for Liverpool.

Club: Liverpool

Fee: Loan

Beck enjoyed his breakout season last year with Dundee FC in the Scottish Premiership. Beck arrived in Scotland with not many aware of his ability, but left considered one of the best left-back’s in Scotland. The 21 year-old will likely find himself out on loan again this campaign, and where better than the Welsh capital? Beck has a great crossing ability and likes to take his man on and join attacks. Beck has a great eye for a pass as well as being strong in the tackle. Similarly to Brandon Williams, discipline would be the only minor concern, with Beck picking up nine yellow cards last season, but with the right management that can be resolved. This could be a great move for Beck to break into the Cymru senior side.

Ryo Hatsuse (27)

Ryo Hatsuse in action for Vissel Kobe.

Club: Vissel Kobe

Fee: £800K

The signing of Ryotaro Tsunoda would suggest Cardiff have an eye on the Asian market. If that’s the the case, they should look no further than Ryo Hatsuse. The 27 year-old possess a great ability going forward and has an excellent passing range. Hatsuse is a more forward thinking fullback, which sees him struggle slightly defensively, but with the cover of others that should be manageable. Hastsuse would suit the inverted fullback role really well, and would help Cardiff become a more progressive side in possession.

Conclusion:

I've highlighted five options that would instantly improve The Bluebirds' left hand side, and help Erol Bulut's side become more progressive and hurt teams down the flanks. I believe all deals are feasible, as well.

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