Local media have confirmed our report via SPTC sources that Chelsea are in the race to sign Feyenoord centre back, David Hancko.
Hancko is just one of many names on our centre back shortlist, but he is certainly one who is being considered.
As I have reported, Chelsea chiefs know that we need to add more experience to the ranks, and even Enzo Maresca has asked for it.
Hancko is a prime example of the type of experience Chelsea will look at adding, a player who is not too old, wont cost too much, and will be a smart buy.
Hancko will turn 28 in the winter, and he would also arrive with 50 international caps for Slovakia, and close to 350 senior career appearances. That is the definition of experience.
Is it quality experience? I’ve personally not watched enough of him to make that call, but I can do research…
As Ai does, it searches a number of recent articles to gather conclusive information, and this is what it’s got….
Dávid Hancko is a modern, proactive defender known for his ball-playing abilities, particularly when operating at left-back. He’s a strong passer, enjoys dribbling, and is an indirect set-piece threat. While he doesn’t dive into tackles, he’s more active in the opposition half than in his own, averaging more touches in the middle third.
Here’s a more detailed look at his style:
Key Characteristics:
Strong passer:Hancko is comfortable playing short passes and is involved in his team’s build-up play.
Dribbling abilities:He is not afraid to dribble the ball, especially when playing at left-back.
Indirect set-piece threat:Hancko can be a danger from set-pieces, either through his passing or his own ability to attack the box.
Proactive defender:He is more active in the opposition half, looking to get forward and contribute to the attack.
Doesn’t dive into tackles:Hancko prefers to use his ball-playing abilities to win the ball rather than engaging in physical tackles.
Playing Style in Context:
Feyenoord:With Feyenoord, who prioritise possession, Hancko is able to showcase his ball-playing skills and contribute to the team’s build-up play.
Slovakia:At the international level, playing at left-back for Slovakia, he remains a proactive defender, often taking the ball forward and contributing to the attack.
From what I have researched and watched on clips, this is pretty accurate. If anyone has anything else to add, please drop in the comments.
A nice recent video here…
He does look very good, and he can also play as a left back. The best thing is of course is he would bring solid experience and some good leadership too having apparently been Feyenoord captain since 2022.
