Everton have been linked with a move for Samuel Chukwueze this summer and now a new update has emerged on a last-minute deal being pursued by the Merseysiders.
What’s the latest?
According to BBC journalist Fraser Fletcher, a deal for the Villarreal winger could be “still possible” for Everton in the final hours of Deadline Day.
Fletcher tweeted:
“Latest I’ve been told – Chukwueze deal still possible for Everton. Been working with intermediaries in Spain to try to push through.
“Will be very very tight.”
Could be a big coup
There is no doubt it would be a big coup for Frank Lampard if the powers at Goodison Park can seal a last-minute deal for Chukwueze as the signing would certainly strengthen their attacking threat in the Premier League over the season ahead.
Despite already signing Neal Maupay and Dwight McNeil in their attempts to strengthen the frontline following Richarlison’s move to Tottenham Hotspur, the Toffees are still struggling to improve upon their form of last season where the side endured a difficult relegation battle.
Everton are currently 17th in the Premier League table and remain winless after five appearances, so the addition of Chukwueze would likely be warmly welcomed by Lampard.
The 23-year-old has scored 25 goals and delivered 22 assists over 162 appearances for his La Liga side, with ten goal contributions in total over last season under Unai Emery’s guidance, but it’s not just his goal contributions that make him a worthwhile signing for the Toffees.
According to FBref, Allan Saint-Maximin and Bukayo Saka are named as two of the most comparable players to the young winger, with Chukwueze ranking in the top 2% of his positional peers in the top five European leagues for dribbles completed, as well as ranking in the top 15% for touches and progressive carries. That suggests he is one of the most exciting young flankers on the continent.
The £43m-valued Villarreal star hasn’t had his hard work go unnoticed with praise from Samuel Eto’o who hailed Chukwueze “incredible” in an interview:
“He is an incredible player who is growing in leaps and bounds,” Eto’o claimed.
Should Everton sign Samuel Chukwueze?
“He is a quality player, and he needs to score more goals, but he has the quality and ability to be more than just a goal-scoring forward. Once he gets all of that he will be top.”
With that being said, the signing of Chukwueze before the transfer window shuts would be a fantastic piece of business for Everton, and with only a few hours left it will be definitely one to watch to see if they can complete a deal. If they could secure it at the last minute, it would be a big coup given his potential price tag and exciting qualities.
