Blues join the race for defender Adama Soumaoro
By Paul Taylor
Everton are reportedly among a number of clubs interested in signing Lille defender Adama Soumaoro, but is he worth pursuing?
When the transfer window reopens next month, we know the main priorities for Everton are to sign a new striker and left back. However, they would also like to bring in another centre-back, to strengthen their back line.
We’ve already mentioned one potential target at this position, in Stefan de Vrij. However, he is just one name on the Blues’ shortlist of possible centre-backs.
Another option is Adama Soumaoro, at least according to the Daily Mail. As per a report from Simon Jones, Everton are one of a number of clubs interested in the Lille defender.
In truth, de Vrij would probably be a better signing. However, with the likes of Juventus and AC Milan also looking to sign him, the Blues need a Plan B.
In that respect, it’s not as if Soumaoro wouldn’t be a good second choice. Apart from being extremely strong and having excellent anticipation for the game — attributes you want in a centre-back — he offers the versatility to play at both full back positions.
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The 25-year-old is under contract until June 2021. However, this shouldn’t affect any potential deal to sign him.
That’s because, as noted by Jones, Lille have been told to find £23 million by the National Directorate of Management Contro, which is the financial policing arm of the French League. Failure to do this, could result in a ban from signing players in January and — more worrying — relegation from Ligue 1.
It is believed Lille would want around £20 million from anyone looking to sign Soumaoro. Certainly Everton have the money, but they will need to decide if he is worth the apparent fee.
From our point of view, £20 million is probably too high, although we appreciate fees are often (usually) over the top when it comes to transfers in the world of professional football. Regardless, the Blues can expect competition from clubs such as Borussia Dortmund, Monaco and Sevilla, if they do intend to pursue Soumaoro next month.
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Are you familiar at all with Soumaoro? If so, would you like to see Everton sign him, or are you not particularly bothered either way? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.