Everton fall behind Spurs in chase of Premier League star

Everton has fallen behind Tottenham Hotspur in chase of Pierre-Emile Hojberg.

Southampton captain Pierre-Emile Hojberg will enter the final year of his contract after the end of this season. Saints coach Ralph Hasenhuttl has insisted that the captain needs to sign a new deal before entering the final year of his contract otherwise Hojberg sends a wrong message to the squad.

Since no extension has been agreed, Premier League clubs like Everton, Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal are alert and have given indications to sign the midfielder. Jose Mourinho is keen to add a powerful midfielder who can work in the offensive as well as defensive the half and Hojberg gives a good shout. Meanwhile, Everton’s midfield problems is a never ending saga and adding the Danish midfielder to their ranks will help Carlo Ancelotti solve some issues in the middle of the park.

According to Evening Standard, Southampton has accepted that they might not be able to tie down their captain to a new deal as Pierre-Emile Hojberg demands European football which Saints may not be able to offer just yet. The club CEO Martin Semmens admitted that they’ll let the 24 year old leave St.Mary’s if a team with Champions League winning aspirations arrives with a suitable offer. The report further stated that Saints have put a £35 million price tag on the Denmark international.

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According to the Daily Star, Tottenham Hotspur has now taken the first step in pursuit of Hojberg and is set to launch their first bid for the wanted midfielder. Everton board may have fallen behind as they still evaluate the feasibility and economics of the deal. Their interest in Napoli midfielder Allan may also have played a part in delaying Toffees’ approach. The same report went onto claim that Saints are even willing to finalize the transfer during the off-season.

Hojberg averages 2.4 tackles, 1.5 interceptions, 1.7 clearances in 90 minutes of a league game. These stats prove his remarkable contributions in the defensive half. He is as lethal in the offensive half as well, averaging 1.5 shots, 1.0 key passes and 1.3 dribbles. The ex-Bayern Munich player is a beast in the midfield that’ll improve any team instantly. (stats via Whoscored)

Spurs have a bigger advantage over Everton as they sit in a better position of offering Champions League Football whereas the Toffees aspire to reach Europe under their Italian manager. As for Southampton, selling Pierre-Emile Hojberg in the next summer transfer window would be smart rather than letting the prized asset go for free next year.

Will Everton succeed in signing Pierre-Emile Hojberg?