Everton could land €40 million midfield monster for half the price
After three signings in the space of a week, Everton’s transfer window activity has stagnated to an extent. However, rumours and reports continue to surface linking new players to Everton almost every day. This time, Borussia Monchengladbach’s midfielder Denis Zakaria has been linked to the Toffees.
Rafa Benitez has addressed the lack of depth on the flanks with the addition of Demarai Gray and Andros Townsend. He has also solved the backup goalkeeper conundrum with Asmir Begovic but work still remains. Work still remains to be done. The Merseysiders seem to be failing in their pursuit for Denzel Dumfries as Inter Milan are likely to win the race for the Dutchman.
There could be room for another midfield option should the Toffees bid farewell to Fabian Delph or Andre Gomes, who has been linked with a Goodison exit. Zakaria is looking to leave Monchengladbach this summer and Everton have been touted as a potential destination.
Everton’s spending constraints in the summer transfer window this season are due to the Financial Fair Play regulations which are halting them to go and spend big in the window. Perhaps, Farhad Moshiri does have the cash but the FFP restrictions have limited Everton’s activity. In order to sign more players, the Toffees will have to generate money through player sales.
Everton linked with Denis Zakaria
Regardless, this hasn’t stopped Everton from at least looking at players who could still strengthen the side. According to German media outlet BILD, Everton, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are candidates who could land Zakaria from Borussia Monchengladbach.
The player and the German outfit are aware that he will leave Borussia Park at some point and the 24 year old wants to push for an exit this summer. Zakaria recently tested positive for Corona Virus and is working hard to regain fitness because that is the only way he can secure a move away from the Fohlen.
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Last summer, Gladbach quoted his price at €40 million but the ongoing and recurring injury issues since March 2020 has seen his stock drop, so much so, that the German team is ready to accept a bid in the region of €20 million, slashing his asking price by 50%.
Zakaria is a midfield monster who can instantly improve the engine room of any side. His unique skillsets make him a handy asset, rather a dangerous player to have in the roster. Zakaria can operate as a lone defensive midfielder or be a part of the double pivot. He’s the guardian of the rearguard, shielding the defence from fast approaching attacks.
The Swiss international has made 7.47 recoveries per game last season, 3.61 tackles + interceptions and making 1.84 blocks per 90 minutes. Zakaria has good acceleration as well which allows him to evade players in one-on-one situations.
Zakaria is a midfield monster for the physicality he possesses. The Monchengladbach midfielder is muscularity stands out making him almost an immovable object. Zakaria also impresses with his passing and distribution abilities. Over the course of last season, the 6’2’’ midfielder registered a pass completion rate of 88.5%. (stats via FBref)
Everton would indeed land a highly promising player should a Zakaria make a switch to the Goodison side but the Toffees will have to fight off competition from Arsenal and Spurs and even before that the Royal Blues will also have to tackle the FFP situation and offload some players.
Agent intensifies talks with interested clubs Everton and Inter Milan as player sale expected soon. dark. Next
Should Everton sign Denis Zakaria?