Everton will hold talks with Real Betis regarding a potential Premier League switch for Guido Rodriguez on Tuesday, according to Estadio Deportivo, with the La Liga outfit demanding a minimum of £33 million.
After two years of middling-to-inconsistent performances, it seems a consensus has been reached. Allan is not the answer to Everton’s defensive midfield problems.
But what about Guido Rodriguez? The Argentine international is younger, quicker across the ground and boasts superior numbers too. Across 2021/22 – as Real Betis secured Europa League qualification – Rodriguez averaged three successful tackles and one interception per 90 minutes; Superior to Allan in both categories (WhoScored).
In fact, no one in La Liga completed more tackles per game than Rodriguez last term. And that includes centre-halves.
No wonder Real Betis are holding out for a big fee, demanding a minimum of £33 million.
Everton want Real Betis ace Guido Rodriguez
According to Estadio Deportivo, Everton have made their interest known, enquiring about Rodriguez’s valuation. The Toffees will reportedly present an approach to Betis at some point on Tuesday too, in an attempt to ‘inform the parties of their intentions’.
Rodriguez, who has a £69 million release clause in his contract, was linked with both Liverpool and Arsenal last year, describing those rumours as a source of price.
“It is an honour,” he said.
Whether Rodriguez would be willing to swap a Betis side playing in Europe for an Everton team who dodged the drop by their skin of their teeth, however, is anyone’s guess.
Estadio Deportivo add that Atletico Madrid are admirers of the 28-year-old too. Diego Simeone is unlikely to get his man though after the 2021 La Liga champions brought in the vastly experienced Axel Witsel from Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer.
And while Financial Fair Play concerns are hanging over Everton heads, there does appear to be room in the budget for one big-money signing. The Toffees are keen on Chelsea’s Armando Broja, after all, despite a £30 million price-tag.
Everton are also closing in on former Wolves youngster Ruben Vinagre. The Sporting Lisbon misfit arrives on loan with an option to buy.
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