Everton begin talks with Manchester United transfer chiefs for Hannibal Mejbri deal
Everton are locked in talks with Manchester United chiefs over the potential loan deal for Hannibal Mejbri, according to Liverpool ECHO.
The newspaper reported via its website [8 January] that talks have taken place between the two Premier League clubs over a loan deal during the January transfer window, with several clubs across Europe interested in the youngster’s services.
Fabrizio Romano reported that Everton were planning on hijacking Sevilla’s deal for Hannibal, who was said to be keen on a six-month move to Spain. However, Everton may be closing in on a deal now.
Having asked not to be called up for Tunisia’s 2023 African Cup of Nations campaign, the 20-year-old is hoping to gain much-needed game time on the pitch.
The United midfielder has struggled for valuable minutes on the pitch under Erik ten Hag but has been included in the matchday squad on 25 occasions. He has only amassed 417 minutes this season and a loan could be vital to his development.
After a superb loan spell at Birmingham City last season, making 41 appearances in all competitions, it was expected that Hannibal would play a much bigger role in the Red Devils’ current campaign.
However, he has made just one start in the Premier League so far, yearning for more minutes on the pitch. Everton are calling out for an energetic midfielder, especially to cover the extent of long-term injuries at Goodison Park.
Sean Dyche will need to watch Hannibal’s recklessness and temper, though. The player managed 10 yellow cards at Birmingham last season and boasts 26 cautions across 68 appearances for Man United U18s, U21s and senior team.
He even has three red cards to his name at U21 level, which the Toffees will want to avoid as they aim to survive relegation from the Premier League.
In other Everton news, Paul Brown has mooted a new contract for an exit-linked Toffees player.