Neil El Aynaoui stats show exactly what Everton could gain from potential Idrissa Gueye replacement

Everton may be on to a winner with their interest in Neil El Aynaoui.

The Blues are crying out for reinforcements in midfield after losing Idrissa Gueye after his contract expired.

They tried to reach an agreement with the Senegal star but ultimately failed, which has left David Moyes looking for a replacement.

Goodison News has covered the Toffees' interest in El Anyaoui and the fierce competition that they face.

Aston Villa, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United are also interested in the 25-year-old.

If they can sign him, it could prove to be a masterstroke as the data proves he may be better than the departing star.

Why does the data suggest that Neil El Aynaoui is better than Idrissa Gueye

Everton hold an advantage in the race for the Roma star due to their connection with the Friedkin Group, per Todomercadoweb on Monday.

That would be a shrewd move, as the stats show that he could be exactly what they need.

He played as much as Gueye, with 25 matches in their respective divisions, although the potential replacement only started eight times.

El Aynaoui completed 89.2 per cent of his passes, compared to the former Blues star's rate of 87.3, per Fotmob.

He also ranked similarly when it comes to tackles per 90 minutes, with 1.82 to 1.84, and exactly the same when it comes to recoveries with 4.81 per game.

The Moroccan betters Gueye when it comes to their interceptions ratio, with 1.54 to 1.20.

Finally, the former Lens man averages 1.36 clearances, which is more than the Senegalese man's 1.03.

Former Morocco manager Walid Regragui waxed lyrical about him after the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final win over Nigeria.

He said: “He's a fantastic player. He arrived in the group with humility and is tactically impeccable."

Why there should not be concerns about El Aynaoui move

There may have been a concern about the fact that El Aynaoui has never played in the English top-flight.

However, he should be pretty confident that he can adapt to his new surroundings, despite the increase in pace and physicality in the new division.

He did not struggle to make the step up at Roma after leaving France, where he had previously starred for Nancy.

He could likely come and make an immediate impact with the L3 outfit, if they win the race for his signature, which their ownership could help with.