Everton officially signed forward Henry Onyekuru to a five-year deal, but then immediately loaned him out to Belgian champions Anderlecht.
Everton fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation that their beloved club have signed Michael Keane and Sandro Ramirez. However, at least there is one player they can officially start to get excited about – sort of.
That’s because, as reported by James Benge of the Evening Standard, Everton have signed Henry Onyekuru to a five-year contract. However, no one will actually get to see him at Goodison Park anytime soon, as he was immediately loaned out to Anderlecht, last season’s Belgian champions.
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Onyekuru is Everton’s third confirmed signing of what has already been a busy summer, for an undisclosed fee believed to be in the region of £7 million. Don’t underestimate what the Toffees achieved here, especially with Arsenal speculated to be one of the other teams interested in the Nigerian international.
Understandably, some fans may be wondering why Everton have loaned out a new signing, especially with them needing all the attacking help they can get. (Especially with Romelu Lukaku seemingly headed out the exit door.)
However, it seems like the decision to loan Onyekuru out, was a major influence in helping him decide to pick Everton. As noted by Benge, consider some comments he made during June:
"“It’s not just about going to a big club and sitting on the bench”, said Onyekuru. “It’s not good for me, or being loaned to a club where I won’t play or where I will struggle to play. The money can come later but for now, I just want to play to improve, not just to play for a big club.”"
With being loaned out to Anderlecht, the 20-year old should get the regular first team action he desires, as he looks to progress. In that respect, his main weakness is — ironically — his strength, which he will hopefully aim to work on in Belgium.
It also helps that Onyekuru will be returning to a league where he is already comfortable. He finished the 2016-17 season as the joint-top scorer in the Belgian First Division A with 22 goals, while playing for Eupen.
The product of Aspire Academy, which is based in Qatar, is renowned for his pace and versatility, with him capable of playing both as a winger and striker. It’s just a shame Everton fans won’t get to see him up close any time soon, although this once again alludes to Ronald Koeman’s long-term plans for the club.
Next: What is holding up the signing of Sandro Ramirez?
What’s your perspective on the signing of Onyekuru? Further, do you agree with the decision to loan him out to Anderlecht, or would you have preferred to see him remain with Everton? Share your thoughts in the comments section.