Valencia prioritise Thomas Meunier for right flank but deal faces salary and timing hurdles | OneFootball

Valencia have Thomas Meunier at the top of their list. He is seen as the leading option for the right side thanks to his immediate impact potential, versatility and free agent status, according to Superdeporte.

One major issue is a shortage of mature dressing-room figures, something Carlos Corberán is pushing to address. They want examples like Marcos Alonso at Celta, while the Cavani case is not a template. The club seek players with two years of good football who can lift young team-mates, hence the interest in Andres García.

During 2025/26 Corberán used a back three at times, with mixed results, and is seeking a long-range wing-back profile. Meunier has shown he can operate across systems.

In 2025/26 he played 25 of his club’s 34 matches, missing nine, seven through injury.

His height and aerial strength could address weaknesses from deep crosses and set plays, areas Valencia must improve in 2026/27. He fits the parameters the club are targeting this window, though persuading him will not be straightforward and much work remains.

Meunier plays the 2026 World Cup with Belgium this summer and offers the blend of authority and experience sought for the '2' channel. The deal is complicated by his salary and rival interest, while the absence of European competition is a further obstacle.

Time is tight, and he may decide his future only after the World Cup. Valencia have also shown they struggle when markets are concluded late.

Source: Superdeporte