Why Iago Falque could be an ideal partner for Gabbiadini at Southampton

Southampton are reportedly interested in Torino forward Iago Falque to enhance their options in the front-line. The Spaniard has previously played one game for the Saints when he arrived on loan from Tottenham in the 2011/2012 season.

However, he failed to impress back then and went to Italy in search of game time. The 28-year-old has done no harm to his reputation in the Serie A, by performing regularly for Torino and leading them to consecutive 9th-place finishes in the league.

The Saints are probably looking for a forward who can link up and support the main striker, Manolo Gabbiadini. Falque has the required tools to be a perfect foil for the finisher, as he can not only score goals but also provide assists and key passes.

Below, we take a look at his playing style and how will he be a great addition at Southampton, if bought:

Player Analysis – Iago Falque

Falque is an all-around attacking midfielder or support striker who can perform multiple roles behind a striker. The Spaniard is a wonderful dribbler of the ball, at a rate of 1.2 per game. He is capable of going past defenders and open up space for a shot. He possesses a fantastic eye for threading key passes, at an average of 1.9 per game, by staying in the pockets of space between the defensive lines.

He has fabricated a total of 71 opportunities towards the goal in 33 appearances, epitomising his potential to be a perfect assist maker for the likes of Gabbiadini.

The 28-year-old’s propensity to stay a bit deeper and press the initial opposition build-up helps the team stay compressed and not allow space. It will be an effective ploy from Mark Hughes to allow him to do that, as teams will then be wary while passing short from the back.

Southampton getting a player like Falque will aid them to be a potent threat on the counter-attacks, as the Spaniard can occupy the centre-backs when his strike partner is running channels in space. In addition, he has a fabulous awareness of the game, so he can make runs and thread devilish balls when required.

Verdict

Overall, the Saints will get a player who is twice better than what he was back in 2012. For Falque as well, it will be an opportunity to create a deadly partnership with Gabbiadini and enhance his disturbed reputation in English football.