AI names five centre-backs for Valencia’s urgent search | OneFootball

Valencia are scrambling for a centre-back after Mouctar Diakhaby’s injury left them short at the back. Carlos Corberán said the situation remains urgent and that he is waiting for movement.

According to Superdeporte, beyond names already linked such as Justin de Haas, analytics platform Olocip has used AI to identify profiles that suit Valencia now. Its model draws on data from more than 100 leagues and filters for players out of contract in June and aged no more than 30.

Five centre-backs are flagged. El Sanganté of Le Havre, 23, ranks best overall, particularly for ball carrying, rated 82. The model notes he is the least strong in pure defending among the group, yet offers leadership as a young captain with scope to grow.

For balance, Kaïboué of Amiens, 27, is the most creative distributor, scoring 99 for switches of play and 97 for through passes, and he also leads total defensive actions on 90. Behounek of Willem II, 28, is the standout ball-winner, with 100 for recoveries and 87 for second balls, and can build from the back under pressure.

Brackelmann of Paderborn 07, 26, brings aerial presence, 79, and a left foot, plus range with 95 for switches, though he lacks top-flight experience. Dammers of Randers, 30, offers recoveries at 85, defensive security and vertical passing for immediate impact. Olocip frames the list as context, with any move dependent on finances, speed and adaptation to Spanish football.

Source: Superdeporte