Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Chelsea has made an approach for Everton midfielder Amadou Onana.
The Lowdown: Chelsea step-up interest
The Times has reported that Graham Potter’s side have stepped up their interest in the Belgian and Premier League midfielder, with Enzo Fernandez of Benfica and Brighton & Hove Albion’s Moises Caicedo also listed as potential targets.
French outlet Foot Mercato has claimed that the Blues have put in an offer for the Toffees man, but Onana is said to have rejected them.
Everton signed the 21-year-old last summer from LOSC Lille and the club ended up paying £33.5 million for his services.
The Latest: Conversations held
Romano has claimed that Chelsea have held conversations with the Toffees, so they can understand the conditions of a possible deal when speaking to GiveMeSport.
He stated, “He’s on the radar of many clubs because, for example, Chelsea had conversations with his agents. They also approached Everton to understand the conditions of the deal for Onana.”
The Verdict: Talented player, steep price
We believe that Onana is a talented player, but the price tag Everton is asking for is simply too steep, it’s been reported that they would need £50 million in order to sanction his exit.
Former Belgium and Everton manager Roberto Martinez praised his former player at the start of the season, describing Onana as a player with ‘physical presence and dynamism’ when speaking to Het Laatste Nieuws.
He certainly has the potential to blossom into a real gem, but £50 million is simply too much for a player whose experience is fairly limited in the grand scheme of things in our view.
Having said that, there’s an argument to be made the prices paid by Premier League clubs are extortionate anyway, as names such as Romelu Lukaku, Harry Maguire and Kepa Arrizabalaga spring to mind.
Chelsea’s recent recruitment is seemingly to target mostly younger players, Onana definitely fits that bill and perhaps they will be willing to meet Everton’s demands for the midfielder.
About the Author
