Report: Everton want to sign Villarreal winger Samuel Chukwueze
Everton are among a host of clubs that want to sign Villarreal dribbling sensation Samuel Chukwueze, according to Fichajes.net.
The Spanish outlet claims the Blues are battling Premier League rivals Arsenal and West Ham while long-term admirers Atletico Madrid retain an interest in the 21-year-old.
Fichajes report it would take a fee of £43.2million for Villarreal to part ways with their prized asset.
The 19-cap Nigerian international has made 35 appearances for the ‘Yellow Submarine’ this season, though 16 have come from the bench. [WhoScored]
He has nine goal contributions (four goals, five assists) to help his side to their current standing of sixth in La Liga and to a Europa League semi-final showdown with Arsenal.
Robben 2.0?
Chukwueze broke out in the 2018/19 season, scoring five goals in 26 appearances, but he struggled to match those feats during the last campaign as he managed just three goals in 37 games.
He has been on the mend under Unai Emery lately, however, netting a brace last week (April 18) in a 5-1 win versus Levante.
La Liga expert Guillem Balague said his dribbling ability was “unbelievable” [BBC] and as a left-footed speedster he has been compared to Arjen Robben, someone he watches YouTube clips of regularly and regards as an “inspiration, one of the greatest.” [Goal]
This is backed up with stats from Wyscout, as only four players in Spain’s top-flight have attempted more dribbles per 90 than Chukwueze (9.67) this season.
Even more impressive, however, is his league-leading tally of 5.42 progressive runs per 90.
Clearly he is a positive player that likes to take players on and run in behind, and that is exactly what is missing at Goodison Park.
James Rodriguez and Richarlison have been the preferred wide men this season but the former likes to come short while the latter drifts into more central striking positions.
Carlo Ancelotti needs someone explosive who is willing to take on players at will, and Chukwueze would tick a lot of boxes while having his best years ahead of him.
In other Everton news, £34.5m fee mooted for previously ‘Untransferable’ Blues target.
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