Blues ready to step up pursuit of Steve N’Zonzi
By Paul Taylor
Everton reportedly want to get French international Steven N’Zonzi signed urgently, when the transfer window reopens in January.
Several weeks ago, we shared a report from the Mirror‘s John Richardson, indicating Sam Allardyce was interested in Steven N’Zonzi. The Everton manager has a history with N’Zonzi after signing him in 2009, while in charge at Blackburn Rovers.
With the transfer window nearly here, nothing has happened to subdue this speculated interest. In fact, Everton are now preparing to ramp up their pursuit of the Sevilla midfielder, at least according to the Daily Mail.
As per a report from the Mail‘s Simon Jones, Allardyce is eager to get business concluded as early as possible in January. The Blues boss is genuinely concerned by the injuries and illness impacting his squad.
As such, Everton will apparently aim to make some genuine headway over the next 48 hours. Jones notes the Toffees will offer around £25 million to secure N’Zonzi’s services.
The 29-year-old is best suited to a defensive midfielder position. He has previously received favourable comparisons to Patrick Vieira and he combines an excellent work rate with an impressive passing range.
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Some Evertonians may wonder why the Blues would want to bring in a player who is similar in playing style to Idrissa Gueye and Morgan Schneiderlin. However, it’s conceivable the addition of N’Zonzi could result in the latter leaving Everton.
Schneiderlin has had his issues both on and off the pitch this season. In particular, there have been questions about his attitude and it would make sense if Allardyce would prefer to replace him with a player he is more familiar with.
N’Zonzi is under contract until July 2019 and Sevilla would understandably prefer not to lose him at this stage. However, as per Jones, the relationship between player and club has soured, after he fell out with the recently sacked Eduardo Berizzo.
Next: Sandro set to leave in January?
Are you familiar with N’Zonzi? If so, what’s your take on the midfielder? What kind of impact do you predict he would have with Everton? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.