Amir Richardson talks emerge at Everton as new transfer decision explained
Sean Dyche spoke to Amir Richardson about a prospective move to Everton this summer before he chose Fiorentina, his representatives have said.
The Moroccan midfielder was one of the Toffees’ targets during the summer transfer window, as per the Sunday Mirror [11 August], having been compared to Paul Pogba during the Olympic Games.
Richardson eventually made the move to Fiorentina in Serie A, making the switch from Ligue 1 side Reims in an £8.4million deal [Football Italia].
Emmanuel Lacroix and Sebastien Szwarc, his representatives, spoke to Space Viola on Monday (9 September), explaining: “Firstly, there was the persuasive approach of the club members. The opportunity to play in Serie A, against some of the best talents in the world, also had a significant impact on the choice.
“Everton, Ajax and Fenerbahce were monitoring his situation with great interest, which is completely understandable given his young age and considerable potential. Amir had discussions with all the coaches of the interested clubs.
“But the first to contact him was (Fiorentina boss) Raffaele Palladino, with whom he had a video call. From the very beginning, his strong interest was clear.”
Everton miss out after Amir Richardson transfer talks
The signing of Richardson would have been a great coup for the Toffees, especially given his comparisons to Pogba.
The 22-year-old emerged into the spotlight during this summer’s Olympics, helping the Moroccans to win bronze in the men’s football, and simultaneously, boosting his transfer value.
He played 28 games for Reims in Ligue 1 last season, notching three goals and one assist, though few teams were closely monitoring him and looking to secure his signature.
All of a sudden, Everton were not the only team keeping tabs, with Fiorentina winning the race to sign Richardson, who looks to be a real talent.
Given the midfield problems at Goodison Park, especially before Orel Mangala’s last-gasp arrival, the Moroccan certainly could have become a favourite among the Evertonians, but it just wasn’t meant to be.
With Mangala being joined by James Garner, Idrissa Gana Gueye and Tim Iroegbunam, Dyche should have enough talent at his disposal to last the season, but any injuries could be disastrous.
In other Everton news, one pundit was concerned by what he saw a Toffees star do during the international window.
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