Everton receive boost for Mason Holgate’s potential centre back partner for next season
Everton target Mohammed Salisu prefers a move to the Premier League.
In the last couple of days, Everton have emerged as strong contenders for signing Real Valladolid centre back Mohammed Salisu. The 21 year old is one of the biggest rising stars in La Liga and is a major pillar in Valladolid’s defence. There have been problems up front for the Spanish side but they have been very adept in defence.
Even though Pucela sit 15th in the table, their defensive record isn’t similar to the low lying teams around them and a major credit goes to Salisu for that. The Ghanaian has helped his team keep 9 clean sheets in 30 La Liga games as the Valladolid defence has conceded just 36 goals compared to Real Betis’ 48 goals, Deportivo Alaves’ 45 goals and CA Osasuna’s 46 goals who all are above Blanquivioletas in the table.
The above paragraph sums up how instrumental Salisu has been for his team and the kind of impact he can have for the team he is playing for. Now, when you perform at the highest levels displaying robustness and brilliance in your game, you are certain to attract the attention of some of the biggest teams in Europe.
Stade Rennais, Southampton, Everton and even Manchester United were linked to the 21 year old, as per Goal. Mohammed Salisu has two years left on his current deal at Jose Zorrilla Stadium but his release clause stands at a very affordable price of €12 million.
To exploit the situation all teams have jumped in and Ligue 1 side Rennes were the first to try and convince Salisu to join the Roazhon Park tenants. However, Stade Rennais president Nicolas Holveck has told Footmercato, that despite Rennes best efforts, Salisu is inclined towards a Premier League move.
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"We have several targets. We are on three-four players, a level higher than the Europa League. If we succeed, there will be real reinforcements. There will be ambitious recruitment whatever happens.Salisu is currently prioritising the Premier League. Forcing a player despite agreements between clubs is something we don’t necessarily want to do. We have done everything to convince him, a priority, he would like to go to the Premier League.We want players who want to come. This is not a reproach to Salisu, who during our discussions, seemed very sincere. He prefers an English speaking country. We’re not going to force people."
The statement from Holveck is a major boost to Everton as they can be considered frontrunners in Mohammed Salisu chase. It is also reported that Salisu may prefer Southampton over the Toffees. It is true, that there will be competition from the Saints but Everton are nicely placed to offer the Ghanaian better terms and opportunities.
In fact, Salisu’s potential and talent can see him partner Mason Holgate as both young centre halves can become Carlo Ancelotti’s first choice centre back pairing. Now, it’s time for Everton to make their move and close in on a deal as soon as possible.
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Will Mohammed Salisu partner Mason Holgate next season in the Toffees defence?