Everton find Malick Fofana alternatives as ‘lively’ movements expected
Everton appear to be ramping up their transfer window activity as the new Premier League season approaches.
While the Toffees were expected to undergo a substantial overhaul, they have only taken modest steps so far.
Adam Aznou is the latest addition at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, having signed from Vincent Kompany’s Bayern Munich.
Now, Everton want Lyon winger Malick Fofana, but they are having to prepare for alternatives should a deal not be possible.
Everton expected to make moves for Assane Diao and Takefusa Kubo
Fofana only just suffered a concussion with Lyon, but that is not the primary reason why a move to Everton is proving tricky.
The 20-year-old is striving for Champions League football and is prioritising that over a move to Merseyside as it stands.
This is frustrating news for David Moyes as he will want more signings finalised before the impending campaign.
However, the North West club are seemingly planning for all eventualities after the latest news regarding Fofana.
That is because the Toffees have made enquiries for both Assane Diao and Takefusa Kubo, according to Fabrizio Romano (29 July).
Furthermore, Estadio Deportivo (29 July) adds that lively movements are expected, especially when wealthy clubs in the United Kingdom come to play.
How do Fofana, Diao, and Kubo compare?
While missing out on Fofana would be a blow, Diao and Kubo offer Everton a route to some promising alternatives.
Last season, Fofana made 17 goal contributions in 41 appearances in all competitions, with nine of those coming in Ligue 1.
As for Diao, he notched 14 goal contributions in 34 appearances, although his goals were spread across spells with Real Betis and Como.
Kubo had the lowest returns in front of goal, with 11 goal contributions across 52 appearances in all competitions.
| Statistics | Malick Fofana | Assana Diao | Takefusa Kubo |
| Appearances | 41 | 34 | 52 |
| Goals | 11 | 10 | 7 |
| Assists | 6 | 4 | 4 |
With Fofana and Diao on the younger side, there is reason to target them as projects, although they are clearly capable for now.
However, Kubo has a wealth of international experience and has also played in Europe’s top competitions.
With the clock ticking, the North West club cannot wait too long for Fofana and are prepared to act on their alternatives.
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