- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands that Everton are using intermediaries to try and move on one of their key players in this upcoming summer transfer window.
Despite the points deductions that Sean Dyche’s Everton had to deal with last season, the former Burnley manager masterminded a solid season for the Toffees as they have, yet again, survived the drop.
This summer, despite the club remaining in the Premier League, selling key players may well be the order of business for the club’s sporting director Kevin Thelwell.
Everton have a few young, exciting players in their line-up and one of these players is Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana, who has been linked to some of the Premier League’s top clubs.
Everton open to key sale
Due to the major problems off the field, with the protracted takeover of the club from 777 Partners in serious doubt and now looking unlikely to go through, Everton may well be forced to sell some key players this summer.
Even if a new owner is found, HITC understands that this would not have any impact on the club’s finances and Everton would still need to balance the books.
As it stands the Toffees most valuable assets are England duo Jordan Pickford and Jarrad Branthwaite, as well as 21-year-old Onana.
Out of the three, HITC understands that Everton would prefer to sell Onana this summer to try and recoup some funds. The Toffees would demand more than £50 million for the sale of the former Lille midfielder.
Last season for the Toffees, the physical Belgian featured in 30 Premier League games contributing two goals but it is his extraordinary physical skills that make him appealing to Dyche.
Plethora of clubs interested but no contact made
If Everton were to allow the Belgian to leave the club this summer, its fair to say the 21-year-old would not be short on options for a summer move with plenty of teams keen.
Onana has been linked with a move to Arsenal, Manchester United, Newcastle United and Spanish giants Barcelona. However, despite these clubs keeping an eye on the Belgian, HITC has been told that there has yet to be any firm contact from interested clubs.
As for Branthwaite, Erik ten Hag’s United have been heavily linked with the English defender, but it is believed they do not want to sell and sources have told HITC they would want in excess of £70million.
Pickford, who has developed into one of the best keepers in Europe, is on Chelsea’s radar as they look at goalkeeping options this summer but he has shown little desire to quit Goodison Park to this point.
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