The Sevilla midfielder has since played for France.
Steven N’Zonzi of Sevilla FC looks on during the UEFA Champions League match between Sevilla FC and NK Maribor
It has been reported this week that Arsenal and Everton are set to do battle for the signature of Sevilla midfielder Steven Nzonzi in January. The Daily Mail reported this week, after the former Stoke City star was spotted in London, that he will hold talks with both clubs soon over a potential move.
The Frenchman is out of favour at Sevilla after falling out with his manager and has not played since November. Both clubs however know just what Nzonzi is capable of, considering his brilliant form whilst playing at the Britannia Stadium.
Everton manager Sam Allardyce is particularly fond of his talents, he initially signed him for Blackburn Rovers back in 2009. In fact, he rated him so highly, he even tried to get the Frenchman playing for England.
France’s midfielder Steven N’Zonzi and Germany’s midfielder Emre Can
During his brief reign as manager of England it was reported that Big Sam was keen on calling Nzonzi up for international duty. He told the Guardian last year that he had hoped to call up Nzonzi for England duty, despite the combative midfielder being born in a Parisian commune. However, one solitary French under-21 cap made him ineligible.
Allardyce stated:
“We did have a call, and it would have been of interest for me.
“We did explore it, but it was impossible, and it’s dead now.”
Stephen Ireland of Aston Villa tackles Steven Nzonzi of Blackburn
Nzonzi has since gone on to earn his first cap for France and improve even more as a player during his time in Spain. Everton however have a unique opportunity to bring him to Goodison Park with a firm advantage over other interested parties, their managers clearly impressive relationship with the 29-year-old.
Allardyce saw Nzonzi thrive at Blackburn did not manage to pull him into the England fold. Perhaps at Everton he can finally get the best from the French midfielder yet again.
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