Cameroonian midfielder Yvan Neyou, currently with Spanish side CD Leganés, is attracting significant interest from clubs in Spain and England as his contract approaches its June expiration.
Valencia CF is reportedly leading the chase, with Premier League outfits Crystal Palace and Fulham also monitoring the situation.
Germain Tiko Messina, a former Cameroonian international and product of Espanyol’s youth system, has weighed in on Neyou’s potential move.
Messina praised Neyou’s consistency and expressed surprise at his limited role in the national team.
“Yvan is a very solid player, who is building a more than honorable career. He is consistent, a regular starter at club level, and confident in his role. I would have liked to see him used more by the national team, because he can clearly bring a real plus with his qualities. But hey, that’s just my opinion,” Messina stated.
Regarding a potential move to Valencia, Messina was enthusiastic: “Honestly, yes. It would be a superb challenge for him. I’m convinced he could shine there. He has the right style of play for Spanish football.And Valencia is a great showcase: a historic club, with real exposure, even if I respect Leganés. For me, Spain remains the best league in terms of quality of play.”
However, Messina also acknowledged Neyou’s suitability for the Premier League, noting his athleticism and defensive capabilities. “The Premier League is all about intensity and power.
Yvan is a very athletic player, he defends well, he has stamina. He can adapt perfectly, play box-to-box. But if I were close to him, I would tell him to stay in Spain, where his profile fits better with the style of play,” he added.
Neyou joined Leganés in 2022, initially on loan from Saint-Étienne, before making the move permanent.
He has since become a key figure in the team’s midfield, known for his defensive solidity and leadership qualities.
Despite his contributions, Leganés faces uncertainty, with several key players, including Neyou, nearing the end of their contracts.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Neyou’s next move remains a topic of keen interest, with clubs in Spain and England vying for his signature.