According to a report by Leicestershire Live, Leicester City and Everton have scouted Olympiakos’ Greek left-back Leonardo Koutris. The 23-year-old was heavily linked with a move away from the Greek giants back in January but Italian club Serie A side Genoa couldn’t get the deal over the line.
However, Calcio Mercato reports that Newcastle United have entered the race for the signature of the young full-back and he would be a fantastic addition under Rafa Benitez at St James’ Park.
The Magpies have struggled massively in the left-back role after a hamstring injury sidelined Paul Dummett for almost 4 months. Benitez was forced to play attacker Matt Ritchie in a full-back role which proved detrimental to Newcastle’s attacking.
January’s loan signing Antonio Barecca is yet to make a mark in the left-back role and he is expected to return to Monaco at the end of the season. Newcastle will need to invest in a left-back this summer to provide backup and competition to Paul Dummett and Leonardo Koutris would be a phenomenal addition.
The young full-back missed the first 7 games of the season but has since been a mainstay for the Greek giants in the league and in Europe. Koutris’ biggest strength is his pace. The 23-year-old glides up and down the flank for fun. Thanks to his speed, he rarely fails to drop back into his position when under attack.
His pace combined with his positioning helps his side massively, especially in one-on-one situations. The Greek international also provides incredible balance to Olympiakos and could do the same at Newcastle where Rafa Benitez bases his game on solid defensive organisation.
Despite being a short figure at only 5 feet 8 inches, Koutris has shown immense strength to hold off his opponents both while attacking and in defence. That would be a massive trait in the Premier League where the physical demands are massive.
Koutris’ passing is also immaculate and he is capable of fantastic long balls which will be of huge value to this Newcastle side, especially with willing runners like Almiron and Perez up top. The Greek international’s crossing is pretty good and will only get better under the guidance of Rafa Benitez.
Newcastle’s need for a new left-back has been evident so far and Leonardo Koutris would be a brilliant fit. The Magpies will have to battle it out with the likes of Leicester and Everton for his signature and Rafa Benitez’s influence should play a massive role in the youngster’s decision.