Florian Lejeune has been valued as the most expensive player in the Newcastle United squad, according to a new study conducted by CIES Football Observatory.??
The research team used algorithms studying players’ age, contract status, position, international appearances and marketability as well as their own and their clubs’ performances, to gauge their estimated transfer value.
The study has shown that defender Lejeune is the most valuable player at St James’ Park and is rated at £15million.
Lejeune only moved to the Premier League in the summer from Spanish club Eibar for £8.7million and that fee appears to be a bargain.
The 26-year-old made a slow start to life with the Magpies and the centre-back has had to be patient waiting for his chacne.
However, he has become a mainstay in Rafael Benitez’s starting XI recently and completed 90 minutes in the last four consecutive Premier League games.
Lejeune is beginning to impress Newcastle fans with his quality in possession and is building a strong partnership alongside captain Jamaal Lascelles in the heart of the Newcastle defence.
OPINION
It may be a surprise to many Newcastle fans that midfielders Mikel Merino or Jonjo Shelvey are not considered the most valuable player despite their influences at the club. However, they will have been impressed by the start in English football from Lejeune as he adapts to the new style. The Frenchman is proving to be a real useful weapon as he starts out play from the back and also has the physical presence to cope with attackers. He will need to keep his high standards if he is to remain above team-mate Ciaran Clark in the pecking order, but the early signs are that he has been a very smart piece of business.