Niels Nkounkou

Key strength: Pace and recovery

Overlapping full-back

At Torino FC, currently positioned 13th in the table, French left-back Niels Nkounkou finds himself in a battle for regular playing time. With just a single appearance this season—90 minutes under his belt—the 25-year-old defender is yet to register goals or assists, but his attributes suggest he's primed for more opportunities. Operating as an overlapping full-back, Nkounkou brings genuine pace and recovery speed to Torino's backline, qualities that complement his €3.5m market valuation. Standing alongside higher-rated teammates like Cesare Casadei (73) and Nikola Vlašić (70), Nkounkou represents the grittier, defensive-minded presence Paolo Vanoli's squad needs. His physicality (55) and defensive awareness (55) make him a reliable option when called upon. As Torino navigate a challenging mid-table campaign, Nkounkou's explosive wide threat could prove crucial in tight encounters where defensive solidity and attacking width are required.