NEXT BIG THING

WHEN THE DUST SETTLES ON A TURBULENT 2023/24 SEASON FOR EVERTON, HOLDING ON TO ONE OF THE MOST PRIZED MIDFIELDERS IN EUROPE WILL BE THEIR NEXT BIG CHALLENGE

- Nick Said

Everton have not got all that much right in the transfer market in recent years, but they can put a big tick next to the name of Belgian midfielder Amadou Onana, who looks set to become a leading light on the continent in the next few years.

It looks almost certain the 22-yearold will leave Goodison Park in this next transfer window, with the key for cash-strapped Everton to maximise their profits.

They bought him from French Ligue 1 side Lille in August 2022 for €35 million and will look, at the very least, to get double that.

If Chelsea were willing to pay €116 m for Moisés Caicedo in August 2023, then Onana looks an absolute bargain at anything below €100 m.

Standing 1.92 metres tall, the big Belgian is a physically imposing figure with excellent timing in the tackle and a passing range of the highest calibre.

He has featured in an Everton side for the past few years that has not been best suited to his talents, but you could see how he could 'purr' at the likes of Arsenal or Barcelona.

These are just two of the clubs reportedly interested. Manchester United and Chelsea have also been linked, along with a host of other clubs across Europe.