Everton transfer news: Twist emerges in Arsenal pursuit to sign Amadou Onana
Arsenal are operating in a cautious manner in the January transfer amid interest in Everton midfielder Amadou Onana, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The news outlet reported on 8 January that the Belgium international has been a long-term target for the Gunners.
The Toffees have used the valuation of Moises Caicedo when he moved from Brighton to Chelsea and that complicates things for Arsenal who are keen on being on the right side of the Profit and Sustainability rules set out by the Premier League.
The report reads: “Arsenal have a long-term interest in Amadou Onana but the prospect of a deal with Everton will come down to the financial positions of both clubs.
“The midfielder has long been on the radar of the north London side – a position enhanced by the Belgium international’s display against them at Goodison Park last February, Onana’s standout performance in Royal Blue.
“But the title challengers are understood to be operating with a cautious approach to the January transfer window, keeping an eye on Premier League profit and sustainability regulations.
“Any deal would also be dependent on Everton climbing down on its previous valuation of Onana. In the summer, club chiefs were keen to use the Moises Caicedo deal completed by Chelsea as a benchmark for the 22-year-old.”
Keep him
Everton must prioritise retaining Onana due to his integral role in the midfield and his potential for further development.
The young Belgian has become a key figure under managers Frank Lampard and Sean Dyche, amassing 49 Premier League appearances since his arrival in the summer of 2022.
With injuries to midfielders Abdoulaye Doucoure and Idrissa Gueye, letting go of Onana could leave Everton vulnerable in the central areas.
The challenge lies in Everton’s previous valuation of Onana, set at £60 million or more.
While the club seeks to profit from player sales as part of their transfer strategy, meeting this valuation poses difficulties, especially considering their cautious approach amid ongoing financial uncertainties and potential takeover talks.
However, shying away from the £60million-plus valuation might result in losing a promising talent who could contribute significantly to Everton’s future success.
The Belgian’s desire for European competition further emphasises the need for Everton to carefully balance financial considerations with the long-term benefits of retaining a player with immense potential.
In other Everton news, a Toffees-linked player is now in advanced talks to secure a move to Sheffield United in the January transfer window.