Everton are reportedly close to signing Henry Onyekuru – and The Toffees could use this to nab another highly-rated, Belgium-based goal-machine.
On the face of it, Everton’s impending move for Henry Onyekuru is one of the smartest deals of the summer.
According to Het Nieuwsblad, The Toffees are speaking to the 20-year-old’s agent as they look to win the race for one of Europe’s most highly-rated young players. Onyekuru, in only his second season with Belgian side KAS Eupen, plundered 24 goal in 41 appearances in all competitions, earning a nomination of the league’s Player of the Year award to boot.
The Nigerian has been linked with countless big name clubs in recent months, including most of the Premier League, but his signing would be yet another indicator of director of football Steve Walsh’s ability to sniff out a bargain.
Everton manager Ronald Koeman looks to have won the race for Henry Onyekuru
However, on closer inspection, the deal could be even more inspired than first thought. According to Het Nieuwsblad, Onyekuru could continue his development in Belgium with Everton considering sending him to Anderlecht on a season-long loan.
Double deal?
This will certainly benefit the 2017 Jupiler League champions, especially with star striker Lukas Teodorczyk linked with the exit. The Polish targetman, who signed permanently from Dinamo Kiev midway through a season-long loan spell, netted 30 goals last season to earn links with a number of European giants.
One of which was Everton. The Mirror reported earlier this month that the £10 million-rated Teodorczyk was at the centre of a tug-of-war between Everton and Merseyside rivals Liverpool.
However, The Toffees may have greased the wheel by offering Onyekuru, who finished level at the top of the scoring charts with Teodorczyk last season, to Anderlecht.
Lukasz Teodorczyk scored against Everton in the 2014/15 Europa League for Dinamo Kiev
That could make them more receptive to approaches for the Polish hitman this summer – potentially helping Everton get their man in return.
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