Sky Sports pundit warns Everton they must complete ‘essential part’ Idrissa Gueye move
We’re delighted to welcome former Everton striker Kevin Campbell as our exclusive columnist. Each week the former Toffees captain will be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Goodison Park…
Everton have to make sure they get the deal for Idrissa Gueye to return over the line at long last because he will be crucial to how they operate this season, says Kevin Campbell.
What appeared to be a good option for all parties has been in the offing for weeks now, with Frank Lampard stepping in to try to push it towards completion as Paris Saint-Germain appear to be making it awkward for either the Toffees or the player.
Talks are continuing into the final week of the transfer window and Sky Sports pundit Campbell believes it is a deal that has to get done as he will be a massive part of both the Everton tactical set up and the development of fellow midfielder Amadou Onana.
He exclusively told Goodison News: “No I still think he’s vital, I really do, I think he’s vital for Everton.
“Because he is that one player who is happy to sit in that midfield, let all the others bomb on, and he will hold the fort.
“He will protect the two centre-halves and he’s got the energy to get out and break things up in the midfield.
“He knows the football club so I think he’s an essential part, with Onana and stuff like that, they are going to rely on the likes of Idrissa Gueye who knows the league, who is happy to say, ‘No I don’t want you on top of my toes, you move out there.’ An organiser.
“I think that’s going to be crucial but I think there is no problem between Everton and the player, I think the issue is Gueye and PSG. I think with some loyalty money.
“Leaving PSG he will be due some money. I think PSG want him to waive it, and if I’m honest with you Idrissa Gueye is due it so why would he want to waive it? So it’s something that has to get sorted out.”
Surplus to requirements in Paris and badly needed back at Goodison, this seemed like a deal that could be waved through pretty quickly, but it has proved to be anything but.
The double-arrival of Gueye and Onana would give the central midfield a formidable boost, but the experience and know-how of the Senegalese international is so important for the overall plan.
Time is ticking down now but since the French champions want him off the books an agreement can surely be reached before deadline day, otherwise it will have to go down as a huge disappointment.