The Brazilian Alternative to Levi Colwill

Liverpool would have to break the world record transfer fee for a defender to sign Levi Colwill from Chelsea.

The chances of that happening are very low, and it won’t be the smartest decision as we still need to strengthen our midfield.

So, in this article, we will be looking at a 19-year-old from Brazil named Lucas Beraldo, who has a similar profile to Levi Colwill and Goncalo Inacio.

Lucas Beraldo in Action — Image via Bolavip Brasil

A few weeks back there were rumours about Brighton trying to sign him. And Brighton rarely make a bad decision when it comes to signing players from South America.

Beraldo currently plays for Sao Paulo FC. So far in the 2023 season, he has played 900 minutes. He recently picked up an ankle injury which has kept him out for a while.

He averages 66.7 passes per 90 with an accuracy of 87.5%. One of the best and most accurate passers in the league.

Lucas Beraldo — Progressive Actions Map 2023 viz by Author

He is also good at progressing the ball. He has all kinds of passes in his locker. From the silky switch to the winger to dangerous vertical passes. His passing technique and style are also very similar to Colwill’s.

Lucas Beraldo Recoveries 2023 — Viz by Author

He is also good at winning his duels and recovering loose balls, especially on the left side of the pitch.

Balls won in Defensive Half-Space (LHS)

The Brazilian has the 5th highest number of balls recovered in the Left Defensive Half-Space of the pitch. (1.7 per 90)

The above stat is something that Liverpool should be looking for in their LCB.

Beraldo Carries into Half-Space 2023 — Viz by Author

The above viz shows his carries into the half-spaces. 4.4 carries into the left half-space per 90.

But what does he do when he is inside the half-space?

Lucas Beraldo Passes from LHS — Viz by Author

He facilitates playmaking. Passes the ball to wingers on both sides of the pitch, recycles the ball, and sometimes makes good vertical passes.

A look at his defensive numbers:

1. 1.1 Tackles Won per 90
2. 68.75% Tackle Success Rate
3. 1 Interception per 90
4. 1.7 Aerial Duels won per 90
5. 65.4% Aerial Success Rate

Conclusion

One of the most exciting LCB profiles is available in the market if we are willing to dip our hands into the South American market. We all know what will happen once Brighton signs him. It’s better to get him at a very affordable cost.

Passing Scouting Report via FBRef

Defending Scouting Report via FBref

All stats from Opta.