Everton have turned their attention towards Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic as they look to boost their firepower ahead of the 2019/20 campaign, according to The Telegraph.
There is uncertainty around the Croatian’s future in Turin after Maurizio Sarri joined the club, as he reportedly wants to play Cristiano Ronaldo as a central striker and is hoping to keep Paulo Dybala.
This could leave Mandzukic, who is rated at £16.2 million on Transfermarkt, open to being taken away and brought to Goodison Park.
The Croatia international has a history of success, with his accolades including a Champions League win, two Bundesliga titles, four Serie A winner’s medals and 16 other trophies in total.
However, he hasn’t just been in the background and has played a fair role in his latest success, as Juventus won Serie A again last season.
He started 23 league matches and came on as a substitute twice, scoring nine goals and assisting six times.
In comparison, Cenk Tosun got three goals and three assists in 10 starts and 15 substitute appearances, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin recorded six goals and two assists in 19 starts and 16 substitute appearances.
Mandzukic won 4.3 aerial duels per game, which was more than either Everton man managed, 1.3 key passes per game which was over double what the others produced, while he also won more fouls per game than Tosun or Calvert-Lewin did.
Whether Everton may eventually feel there is a better fit elsewhere is uncertain, but by comparing Mandzukic to Calvert-Lewin and Tosun’s performances last season, it is clear he is good enough to be Everton’s number 9.
He may be 33-years-old, but the Croatian can still be an asset, as his goal contributions and overall play indicate he can get the ball in the net, while also bringing the likes of Richarlison and Bernard into the match.
The Juventus man also has experience at the top of the game, which Calvert-Lewin could learn from to develop his own game.
Everton fans, would Mandzukic be a good signing? Join the discussion by commenting below…
