Orel Mangala doesn’t want Everton deal after hijack attempt, pushing for rival move
Orel Mangala and his agents are now pushing to join Fiorentina instead of Everton, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.
The Sky Sports Italy journalist reported via his website on 29 August that a loan-to-buy offer had come in from the Seire A side which has turned the midfielder’s head.
However, the Lyon president Laurent Prud’homme has given his word to the Toffees and is determined to keep it, so the player’s will may not be enough to change course.
Lyon president gives word to Everton over Orel Mangala loan
Sacha Tavolieri had reported earlier on 29 August that a Fiorentina approach had been averted, but the move may yet be in doubt if Mangala isn’t convinced.
John Textor’s presence as the latest preferred buyer of the club is surely a major factor in Everton suddenly closing in on a pair of signings from his French side.
The American himself is said to have suggested winger Earnest Nuamah [TBR Football, 29 August] as the prospect of a “double-raid” is on.
But if Mangala isn’t convinced by a Goodison Park switch it could yet end up with none since Sean Dyche surely won’t be overjoyed to land a player who wanted to go elsewhere, no matter the view of Prud’homme or Textor.
The Belgian international midfielder has a medical booked on Merseyside [Fabrizio Romano, 29 August] and would fill the gap left by compatriot Amadou Onana.
But it looks like this one could go down to the wire if the 26-year-old himself has other plans than what the clubs have in mind.
In other Everton news, Sean Dyche could be gone within a matter of weeks as Farhad Moshiri will sack him before selling the club.
For more Everton news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.