Who Could Make a Difference at AFC Bournemouth? BJ88 Identifies Three Potential Stars

2024-08-09

As AFC Bournemouth gears up for the new season, the club's transfer activity has highlighted several exciting prospects who could make a significant impact. BJ88 has analyzed three key players who stand out as potential game-changers for the Cherries. Here’s a closer look at these players and what they could bring to the team.

1. Reinildo Mandava

Bournemouth’s defense has received a boost with the arrival of Dutch center-back Dean Huijsen from Juventus, but there's still room for added depth and competition. One potential candidate to fill this gap is Reinildo Mandava, currently with Atletico Madrid.

Mandava, a 30-year-old left fullback, brings a wealth of experience and physicality to the table. Known for his aggressive style, Mandava excels in defensive situations, as evidenced by his impressive performance against Athletic Bilbao, where he made seven tackles, blocked three attempts, and executed ten recoveries. His ability to play as a left center-back in a back-three system further adds to his versatility.

His addition would not only provide competition for Milos Kerkez but also offer valuable experience and stability in the backline. Mandava’s presence could ensure that Bournemouth remains robust defensively while offering flexibility in different tactical setups.

2. Tanner Tessman

In the midfield, Bournemouth has several promising players like Alex Scott, Lewis Cook, Philip Billing, and Tyler Adams. However, adding another dynamic midfielder could provide an extra edge. Enter Tanner Tessman, a 22-year-old American from Venezia.

Standing at 6ft 2in, Tessman is known for his physicality and aerial prowess, winning 50% of his duels in Serie A last season. His ability to drop into the center-back role when necessary, combined with his defensive reliability, makes him an attractive option. Although there are rumors linking him to Serie A giants Inter Milan and Fiorentina, Tessman might find more regular game time and a better opportunity to showcase his talents at the Vitality Stadium.

His presence in the midfield could enhance Bournemouth’s defensive stability while providing a solid alternative in various midfield roles.

3. Konstantinos Fortounis

Bournemouth’s attacking midfield options currently include Hamed Junior Traorè, Ryan Christie, and Alex Scott. To bolster this area, the club might consider Konstantinos Fortounis, a Greek free agent with an impressive resume.

Fortounis, formerly of Olympiacos, is known for his creative flair and technical ability. His statistics reveal an 88% success rate in progressive passing and a 91% success rate in take-ons. With multiple league titles, a Europa Conference League trophy, and two Greek Cups to his name, Fortounis brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success.

Adding Fortounis could provide Bournemouth with a reliable playmaker who can operate in various attacking roles, enhancing the team's creativity and offensive options.

As Bournemouth prepares for the upcoming season, these three players—Reinildo Mandava, Tanner Tessman, and Konstantinos Fortounis—represent significant opportunities for strengthening the squad. Each brings unique qualities that could address current gaps and enhance the team's overall performance. With BJ88’s insight into these potential stars, Bournemouth fans have much to look forward to as the club continues to build a competitive and dynamic team for the new season.