Everton interested in Bayer Leverkusen’s Karim Bellarabi
By Paul Taylor
Everton are at it again, this time being linked with Bayer Leverkusen’s versatile winger Karim Bellarabi, but will he join the revolution at Goodison Park?
These are exciting times for Everton, who have already signed several new players and are expected to announce a couple more arrivals any time now. (More specifically, Sandro Ramirez and Michael Keane.)
As such, the Blues returned to pre-season training on Monday in high spirits. We’re not going to make any predictions on their behalf, but the 2017/18 season is shaping up as one of the most anticipated in quite some time.
Another reason for so much excitement, comes down to Everton being linked to a whole host of players in recent weeks. And it’s more than just hopeful bluster, considering the assets they have already persuaded to join the revolution at Goodison Park.
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With this in mind, let’s consider the latest name linked with a potential move to the blue side of Merseyside. As per a report from Joe Owens of ninetyminutesonline.com, Everton have apparently joined the race for Karim Bellarabi.
Owens writes that the speculation was first reported by Bild. According to the German media outlet, Bayer Leverkusen are expecting around £22 million from anyone hoping to secure the services of Bellarabi.
An initial look at the 27-year old’s stats from last season, may well leave some fans decidedly underwhelmed. However, keep in mind his totals of four goals and six assists were achieved in just 17 games, as he spent a significant portion of the first half of the 2016/17 campaign battling injury.
If this isn’t enough to convince you, consider that Bellarabi is also receiving interest from Arsenal, as well as other top teams around Europe. He’s excellent on the ball, has speed and has played 11 times for the full German national team.
Part of the reason the versatile winger is even available, is due to Leverkusen not being eligible for European competition this coming season, something which Everton can offer. Whether this is enough to convince him to join them remains to be seen, but it will be worth keeping an eye on any developments in the coming weeks.
Next: Sandro Ramirez has a lot to live up to
What’s your take on Bellarabi? Is he the type of player you see fitting in at Everton? In addition, does £22 million seem like a reasonable transfer fee? Share your thoughts in the comments section.