A direct Onana replacement”- Everton reportedly intensifies move to sign record-breaking £13m Serie A midfielder who act as a three-in-one reinforcement and a direct replacement for Onana.
With just two weeks remaining before the transfer window closes and the Premier League season already in full swing, Everton are reportedly ramping up their efforts to secure a midfield signing.
Everton Transfer Update
Despite unresolved takeover issues, Everton have had a productive summer in terms of signings and, as things stand, are set to retain Jarrad Branthwaite. The Toffees have welcomed Iliman Ndiaye, Tim Iroegnunam, Jesper Lindstrom, and notably Jake O’Brien from Lyon, providing Sean Dyche with a significant boost once the new arrivals are settled in.
While Everton have managed to keep Branthwaite, they haven’t been as fortunate with Amadou Onana. The Belgian midfielder left Goodison Park earlier this summer to join Aston Villa in a deal reportedly worth £50 million, creating a significant gap in Everton’s midfield.
To fill that gap, Everton could turn to a Europa League player. According to Gazzetta dello Sport via Sport Witness, Everton are stepping up their pursuit of Edoardo Bove, whom AS Roma reportedly value at €15 million (£13 million).
Bove, who can play in attacking, central, and defensive midfield roles, would offer Dyche a versatile option and could serve as a direct replacement for Onana.
At just 22 years old, Bove came through Roma’s youth system and earned several first-team appearances last season. However, he may now be poised to leave his boyhood club for the Premier League. At £13 million, Everton could secure his services without jeopardizing their compliance with the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations.
Bove as Onana’s Successor
Replacing Onana is no easy task, but Bove is the type of player who could rise to the challenge. At just 22, he still has room to grow, and Everton’s potential £13 million investment could prove to be a masterstroke if he fulfills his potential.
Last season, Bove held his own against Onana in terms of ball control and tackles won. However, one concern for Everton is Bove’s ability to recover possession, a key trait for any player in a side that spends significant time out of possession. A strong presence in midfield is essential for any Onana replacement.
If Bove’s time at Roma is coming to an end, he will leave as a record-breaker, having become the youngest player to score in a European semi-final for the club in May 2023.
