Everton must protect Vitalii Mykolenko if they sign Oleksandr Zinchenko
Frank Lampard must play Oleksandr Zinchenko in midfield if Everton are successful in their attempt to bring the Manchester City ace to Goodison Park in the summer.
The Athletic reported that the Ukraine international had been touted for a move to the Toffees, as well as Newcastle ahead of the summer window opening.
With West Ham also in the race for the left-back, their club insider Claret & Hugh mooted a £40million price tag for the 25-year-old.
Initially, that seems too high but when you break down Zinchenko’s experience as well as the potential he has to improve – it could end up being a great deal.
The Cityzens ace has cleaned up since coming to England, winning nine major honours, including four Premier League titles – that is something that can certainly be used in the Toffees’ squad.
He has followed a similar path to Fabian Delph – who Lampard is a big fan of – at the Etihad but has the luxury of youth on his side which would make this a great deal.
Smart.
With his international teammate Vitalii Mykolenko going from strength to strength at the back end of last – Lampard has to be smart and play Zinchenko in midfield.
It would be totally wrong if the Blues spent all that money on the young defender to then go out and spend even more on an older replacement and could end up ruining the youngsters Blues career.
The maestro was actually a midfielder by trade before he crossed paths with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola who changed him to a left-back and he often plays there for his national team.
In fact, that is where Zinchenko has put in his best performances throughout his career – he flourishes under the freedom playing in midfield gives.
At City, the full-backs virtually play as wingers which means he can use his attacking flair but if he played in defence for the Toffees, those skills would go to waste.
With that being said, he could deputise as an emergency left-back if needed – his versatility would be a huge bonus to the squad.
In other Everton news, Yet another European giant who have enjoyed recent major success are eyeing a move for a key Everton man, according to a report.
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