Lucas Cepeda is unlikely to play in the upcoming Club World Cup, therefore Southampton must decide whether to seize the opportunity or pass on this tricky deal.
During midweek, Southampton fans learned of River Plate’s growing interest in in-demand number nine Lucas Cepeda. The Saints will aim to capitalize on his best years at St. Mary’s, but they understand that making the immediate step to the Championship and subsequently the Premier League has make-or-break transfer implications.
Having stated that, Southampton requires Cepeda to take an intermediate step in his career before bringing his most consistent and physically fit version to St. Mary’s.
Something like him joining River Plate and competing against the best football teams in the next Club World Cup. Unfortunately, that idea has been denied by EFL Analysis, as Colo-Colo now lacks concrete bids to even contemplate in the first place.
Cepeda is expected to miss out on the Club World Cup. To be honest, Southampton fans did not expect to see a clear signing opportunity here, which has resulted in more transfer headaches than excitement in reality.
Furthermore, as expected, River Plate has finalized their Club World Cup lineup, so the Saints will not be able to see Cepeda play there.
Imagine facing up against recent Champions League finalists Inter Milan and, maybe, prior ones Borussia Dortmund in the knockout stages, which could have been ideal tests for the 22-year-old’s scoring abilities.
But now that it isn’t happening, Southampton are locked in the infamous signing catch all over again.
Do they risk £5 million against Cepeda’s raw skill, or do they risk missing out on one of the best strikers of the future? This decision is not easy, and Southampton may benefit by waiting to see how the story unfolds. Then, whatever they choose to do will most likely be the correct decision.
Leave a Reply