French media Foot Mercato recently disclosed that Ligue 1 team Lille's road to reinforcement in the summer transfer market is not smooth, especially in the introduction of the back line has encountered considerable challenges. According to reports, Lille is actively seeking the introduction of Villarreal's center back Mandy, in order to enhance the team's defensive strength, but this plan has encountered strong competition from the Saudi Arabia giants Ras Eternity.
Although Lille have completed the signings of Etang Mbappe, Mukau and Meunier in the early part of the summer transfer window, they are still in dire need of fresh blood in the backline, especially at the center back position. With Yolo's move to Manchester United, Lille even regarded bringing in a new center-back as one of their top priorities in the summer window. In this context, Mandy has become an important target for them.
Mandi, the 32-year-old Algerian international, has a wealth of experience in the Europa League. Despite his relatively limited appearances in Villarreal last season, he still showed excellent defensive ability and stable play. It is reported that Mandy's contract with Villarreal is about to expire and his salary level is high, which makes the La Liga powerhouse interested in sending him away before the expiration of his contract to avoid the situation of losing both money and people.
However, Lille encountered considerable obstacles in the process of introducing Mandy. In addition to having to face fierce competition from Saudi Arabia's Ras Eternity, Mandy's personal wishes have also become a key factor. It is said that Mandy prefers to return to France to play soccer, which undoubtedly provides Lille with certain advantages. But at the same time, Lille must also take into account other potential defensive reinforcement targets, such as West Ham United's Agder and Marseille's Gigot, in order to deal with possible variables.
