Everton keeping track of Aston Villa’s Jonathan Kodjia
By Paul Taylor
Everton are reportedly interested in signing Ivory Coast international forward Jonathan Kodjia, but will face competition from Stoke City.
On Thursday, we shared information relating to Everton apparently being interested in the highly-rated Keinan Davis. However, it turns out he’s not the only Aston Villa player drawing attention from the blue half of Merseyside.
As per a report from Alex Dicken of the Birmingham Mail, the Blues are also keeping track of Jonathan Kodjia. He recently returned from injury and has started the last three games for Aston Villa.
As a result, Everton have apparently sent scouts to watch the 27-year-old. The question is, would he be the type of player who could help Ronald Koeman’s side?
Signed in August 2016, Kodjia was a hit during his first season with the Claret and Blue. He proved to be particularly successful after Steve Bruce took over in October last year.
More from Prince Rupert's Tower
- Everton 0 Arsenal 1: Blues fall to third home defeat
- Further chaos in Everton takeover as other lenders not keen on 777 Partners
- Everton need repeat of Arsenal win to kick-start their season on Sunday
- More madness at Everton as Moshiri now agrees to sell club to 777 Partners
- Everton takeover talk cools after UK govt doubts and further questions
The French-born player scored six goals in Bruce’s first seven games in charge. He went on to be named PFA Championship player of the month for November and by the end of the 2016/17 campaign, had 19 goals in 36 league appearances.
Kodkia has yet to score this season, albeit due to injury. However, he has looked good in the four games he’s played so far and does have one assist.
The former Bristol City player also has experience at the international level. He made his debut for the Ivory Coast team (his parents are Ivorian) in May 2016 and so far has five goals in 10 appearances.
Dicken notes that Stoke City are also tracking Kodjia, something to keep in mind if Everton do decide to make an official move for him. In respect of his potential transfer fee, consider that he is only in the second season of the four-year contract he signed with Villa.
Next: Player ratings vs. Apollon Limassol
What’s your opinion of Kodjia? Have you seen much of him in action? Do you think he would prove to be a good fit for the Blues? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.