In one year, Everton have lost two of their most creative powerhouses in James Rodriguez and Lucas Digne. Rafa Benitez has to be blamed for discarding the players that brought creativity in abundance. Now, Frank Lampard is in a bid to sign a player with creative and playmaking instincts. Christian Eriksen ticks all the boxes.
Eriksen signed for Brentford in January and was one of the best players for Thomas Frank’s side, showing that he still had it in him. The Danish international’s short term contract expires this summer and even though Brentford will be delighted to keep him, Eriksen seems to be exploring other options.
In 11 games for the Bees, the 30 year old scored once and provided four assists while often being the nucleus of creating chances. According to Northern Echo, Eriksen has decided to play his football elsewhere and will not renew a contract with Brentford despite having an offer on the table.
A number of Premier League teams have shown interest in him. Everton, Manchester United, Newcastle United and his former employers Tottenham Hotspur are keeping tabs on the situation. Spurs and United have held more concrete talks as compared to other interested sides.
Everton target Christian Eriksen receives offer from Manchester United
When James and Digne were forced out by Benitez, Everton were deprived of the accurate pin point crosses from the Frenchman and the magical vision and genius of Rodriguez. In a flash, two players that contributed 16 assists during the 2020-21 season were gone. Then manager Benitez did not replace the playmaker and Everton’s creative output dropped instantly.
With no creator in the middle of the pitch, the team struggled to get create chances and strikers Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin were deprived of any meaningful service. Lampard came in and brought a deep lying playmaker in Donny van de Beek on loan. The former Chelsea boss also signed Dele Alli from Spurs.
Everton need a playmaker and Eriksen is one of the finest when in form. He’s a threat to the opposition from dead-ball situations, with the ability to put in the perfect ball for the attackers to feed on.
However, Everton do face immense competition. According to The Athletic, Manchester United have already made an offer to the 30 year old. One would expect the Denmark international to choose a Champions League playing club but recently Eriksen said that Champions League football isn’t a necessary aspect to be considered when choosing his next club.
This will level the playing field for the Toffees. Everton will have to convince him of the sporting project they have in the pipeline. The former Inter Milan man will be signing on a free transfer so offering him a decent package shouldn’t be too harsh on the wage club finances.
Everton will need to move fast if they want to bring Eriksen to Goodison Park or else the big fishes like Spurs and Manchester United will emerge victorious in acquiring his signature.
Will Christian Eriksen sign for Everton?