Roma’s bid for 26 year old Everton target falls short of £21.4 million valuation
Everton’s transfer activity has been low key but shrewd so far. Asmir Begovic, Andros Townsend and Demarai Gray have joined the club. While none of these are world-class players, they solve issues in the squad that had been lingered for way too long. However, this is not the end of Everton’s transfer business this summer as the club is likely to reinforce more areas. Central defence is an area Rafa Benitez wants to improve and Clement Lenglet is certainly a target.
Earlier this month, several publications across Spain and England reported Everton’s interest in Lenglet. Saying that Barcelona are in a fragile financial condition is somewhat of an understatement. The Blaugrana club are in a colossal economic crisis and are in desperate need of funds.
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Their financial slump coupled with La Liga’s salary cap could land Barcelona into an even more disastrous position as they could fail to register the new signings Sergio Aguero, Memphis Depay, Eric Garcia and Emerson Royal. Worse, they might even fail to sign Lionel Messi who became a free agent after his deal with Barca ran out.
Barcelona are seeking to offload players replenish their treasury. While Lenglet is not a player that Barcelona are desperate to sell they are ready to listen to all offers that could help the club reduce the wage bill. A number of clubs including the Toffees are said to be interested in the former Sevilla man.
Barcelona value Everton target Clement Lenglet at €25 million
From the Premier League, Everton and West Ham made enquiries about Lenglet and want the Frenchman on a loan deal with an obligation to buy. AS Roma have also entered the race to sign the 26 year old. According to the Spanish publication Sport, the Italians have also submitted a €15 million bid. Barcelona were interested in midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini which gave rise to talks of potential swap deal but Roma instantly rejected such an idea.
Giallorossi’s bid of €15 million will not meet the expectations of the chiefs in Barcelona as they value the Frenchman at €25 million. Despite the perilous financial situation, Barca won’t be bullied and want to hold onto its valuation.
Furthermore, what can be a boost to Everton is the player’s desire. If at all Lenglet is to leave Barcelona, he would like to try an adventure in the Premier League. It is clear that Everton will have to pay a sum of €25 million or more to acquire Lenglet.
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Is Clement Lenglet a player you want to see at Everton?