Everton defender Mason Holgate could leave the club this summer, with AFC Bournemouth, Burnley and Sheffield United interested, as reported by The Daily Mail.
It is believed that Everton are hoping to release him on loan rather than permanently, though an offer of £8m could be enough to prise the fringe player away.
There is also interest from the Championship in the 22-year-old, with West Bromwich Albion among those who want him.
Holgate started 21 league games while on loan with West Brom last season, scoring one goal and assisting four times, as per WhoScored, having made four starts and one substitute appearance for Everton earlier in the campaign.
During his time at the Hawthorns, Holgate averaged 2.7 tackles, 1.6 interceptions, 2.4 clearances and 0.4 blocks per game.
With Yerry Mina and Michael Keane currently acting as the club’s only senior centre-backs, it would seem a bit of a risk to allow the young Englishman to leave.
Finishing the last Championship season in the top 10 players (minimum of 15 games played) for tackles made per game, he could be a useful option.
Mina is the most likely player he’d be able to overtake, with Keane having started 33 games last term, though it might not be easy.
The Colombian made 1.1 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, 3.8 clearances and 0.4 blocks per game in his first campaign at Goodison Park, which will likely improve after his settling in period, meaning it could be tough for Holgate to displace him.
Everton have made some very exciting signings this summer, though they must ensure a quality starting lineup doesn’t come at the cost of squad depth.
Holgate can be a useful back-up option, so the Toffees should be wary of letting him leave Goodison Park, whether that is temporarily or on a permanent basis, for now.
Everton fans, should the club keep hold of Holgate? Let us know what you think by commenting below!
