Things to know about Leicester transfer target Flynn Downes

Where would Downes fit in?

I have got to be honest, it took more research than previous pieces to understand this player. From stats to watching clips, I can now say there is a very good reason we are looking into this English talent.

You can argue that Leicester City’s midfield most balanced archetype is a combination of Wilfred Ndidi (DM), Tielemans (CM), and James Maddison (AM). A triple threat of ball-winning, ball progression/retention, and creativity. This was disrupted for most of last season.

In terms of depth, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall can play a more creative role where the Belgian midfielder usually sits, and Ayoze Perez is currently our only other competent AM. Neither Papy Mendy or Hamza Choudhury offer significant benefits in either ball-winning or ball-retentive purposes.

This is where Downes shines. However, it is also where Boubakary Soumare shines. Both are tactically well aware in their comfortable position, have great technical ability on the ball, and offer strength to keep hold of the ball. They can aid in retaining the ball.

For Swansea, the Englishman has shown neat passing through lines to maintain ball progression, though he is not often responsible for progressing the ball himself. Downes is their clockwork – the tempo setter: he passes and moves around incessantly.