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According to a report from Sport, Barcelona have allegedly pulled out of the race for highly-rated Everton midfielder Amadou Onana. The Catalan giants are in the middle of a financial crisis, ergo Everton’s price demands are a major deterrent.
Barça dropping out means Manchester United are now in prime position to sign Onana.
The big midfielder signed for Everton from Lille 2 years ago for £33m and has since become a very important player for the Toffees.
His performances have caught the attention of several top sides and at the age of 22, his suitors believe he could go on to become a world-class player in the future.
Manchester United, Arsenal and Barcelona have been most linked with the Belgian and with this recent development, Arsenal and Manchester United are now in the driver’s seat.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reported to be very keen on replacing Casemiro who is on his last legs and nearing the twilight of his career and Onana would be a great replacement.
Onana is just aggressive as United’s Brazilian destroyer and loves to battle to win possession. His front-footed style enables him to intercept passes or recover any loose ball, then retain possession and progress forward.
United are set for a major shake-down in the summer, with massive exits expected, including Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen. It is also reported that the club will be looking to cash in on midfielder and top scorer Scott McTominay.
If that will be the case, Bruno and Casemiro will be the only senior recognized midfielders in the squad as Kobbie Mainoo is still developing, however special he is.
TEAMtalk confirms that Everton will be seeking an amount in the region of £80m. The Toffees will need to pay 20% of any sell on fee to Lille – which has increased Onana’s price tag. This was agreed as part of the deal that saw the midfielder move to Goodison Park.
