Arsenal pushing to sign Everton star Amadou Onana
Arsenal are pushing to sign Everton midfielder Amadou Onana ahead of Chelsea and Manchester United this month, according to Belgian outlet Het Nieuwsblad (today’s edition).
The Gunners had a disappointing end to 2023 with only four points picked up from a possible 15 in the Premier League. They started 2024 in a similar fashion with an FA Cup third round exit.
The north London giants dominated the proceedings in the opening half against Liverpool but failed to capitalise on their chances. They paid the price in the end with a frustrating 2-0 loss.
There have been calls from some fans to sign a marquee striker this month but it is quite clear that the Gunners are looking into a deal for Onana, who can play in different midfield roles.
Het Nieuwsblad claim that the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea are interested in the Belgian, but it is Arsenal, who are pushing to land his signature in the ongoing transfer window.
The Toffees currently value their midfielder at €60 million. It is reported that Mikel Arteta’s side could make a proposal to sign the 22-year-old on loan with an obligation to purchase.
Arsenal determined to land Onana this month
The former Lille man has the ability to operate from the number eight and number six positions. At Everton, he has excelled from the latter of those roles with good consistency.
Onana has won seven duels and 2.6 tackles per league game with 6.5 ball recoveries this term. He has a passing accuracy of 85 per cent but makes up for it with his tireless workrate.
The Belgian has the ability to dispossess opponents with his regular pressing and would fit in perfectly into the plans of manager Mikel Arteta as they look to challenge for the title.
His arrival could see Declan Rice moved into an advanced central midfield role. Kai Havertz could be handed the chance to fight for the number nine position going forward.
Everton are set to receive fresh investment from their new owners, but they are still in a difficult financial position. A loan with an obligatory buy clause could persuade them to sell.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
