Deportivo steps up the search for centre-backs

Real Club Deportivo de la Coruña

The Deportivo are continuing to move with intensity in the transfer market and, after completing the signing of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the sporting directorate is keeping its focus on strengthening a squad that still needs several pieces before the start of the season in LaLiga/Primera Division.

Juan Jesus

One of the names that has gained momentum in recent hours is Juan Jesus, the Brazilian centre-back, aged 35, who is without a club after finishing his spell at Napoli and fits the profile the Coruna club is looking for: a defender with experience, left-footed and used to competing at the very highest level. The information was first reported by journalist Ángel García and has been confirmed by different media outlets.

Over the course of his career, the Brazilian has worn the shirts of Inter, Roma and Napoli, building up extensive experience in Serie A. In the last campaign, he took part in around 20 matches and, although his role has diminished in recent years, he still offers versatility. He usually plays as a left centre-back, but he can also operate as a full-back on that side, a quality that Deportivo particularly values.

Lilian Brassier

Deportivo are also keeping tabs on Lilian Brassier, the French defender aged 26 who is under contract with Rennes until 2029. His ability to play both the heart of the defence and left-back makes him another option that matches the club's needs.

The 1.86-metre centre-back stands out more for his defensive intelligence than for spectacular moments. He is a very comfortable defender on the left side, who steps out with judgement from behind, strong in aerial duels and physical contests. He holds his position well and rarely breaks the line unnecessarily. He looks for vertical passes to break through lines and does not usually overuse long switches.

Although the priorities are to bring in a centre-back and a left-back, Deportivo are also scouting the market for a right winger and another striker. Those deals do not carry the same level of urgency and could be left for the final stretch of the window, depending on the opportunities that arise and on any outgoing moves.

If the sporting directorate's plans are followed, the team will reach ten new signings this summer. After winning promotion, the club has opted for a deep overhaul of the squad, mixing young players with potential and experienced footballers to return to the top flight with greater guarantees.

Despite the significant outlay made during this window, Deportivo still have room to keep strengthening. The lack of a large debt and a sound financial structure allow the club to pursue further deals while it completes the construction of a squad with which it aims to establish itself in LaLiga/Primera Division.