Yan Valery, the 25-year-old defender from SCO Angers, has reportedly reached an agreement with EFL Championship side Sheffield Wednesday, according to L’Équipe. Despite this, Montpellier HSC and Standard Liège are also vying for the Tunisian international’s signature. Valery, who has recently expressed his desire to return to England, played 37 matches for Angers last season as they successfully returned to Ligue 1. Angers’ successful campaign has attracted significant attention towards Valery, reflecting his solid performance throughout the season.
Connection with Sheffield Wednesday
Valery’s career began at Southampton, where he had the opportunity to work with Danny Röhl, who is currently managing Sheffield Wednesday and was formerly an assistant to Ralph Hasenhüttl. The Championship club is eager to bring Valery back to England, and negotiations between the clubs are ongoing. Valery’s relationship with Röhl could be a significant factor in his potential move to Sheffield Wednesday. Röhl’s familiarity with Valery’s abilities and style of play could prove instrumental in integrating the defender seamlessly into the team.
Valery’s Preference for England
In a recent interview with 90 Football, Valery expressed his strong preference for living in England. “Actually, I have become English,” he stated, highlighting his affinity for the lifestyle and culture in England. He elaborated, “When I go to England, I immediately feel this calmness and this way of living that I personally prefer.” Valery emphasized the warmth and neighborly support he experienced in England, contrasting it with his experiences in France. He added, “If I had the chance to go back to England, I’d take it. I have really felt a warmth and things that I think are normal for a human being. He shouldn’t be bitter or not like his neighbour just because he’s different or because he sees life differently. We all live together, if you can help your neighbour, you help them. It’s more like that in England. You find that less easily in France.” His clear intention to return to England places Sheffield Wednesday in a favorable position to finalize the transfer, provided they can agree terms with Angers.
Sheffield Wednesday’s Ambition
Sheffield Wednesday’s pursuit of Valery reflects their ambition to strengthen their squad with experienced and versatile players. Valery’s Premier League experience with Southampton, combined with his recent performances in Ligue 1, makes him a valuable asset for any club aiming to compete at a higher level. His ability to play both as a right-back and in more advanced positions offers tactical flexibility to Röhl’s side, which could be crucial in the highly competitive environment of the Championship.
