Chelsea is determined to outpace Barcelona in securing the signature of Amadou Onana and has reportedly made an offer to Everton. The 22-year-old midfielder has been a subject of transfer speculation amidst Everton’s financial challenges and the looming threat of relegation from the Premier League.
While Barcelona has been considered a potential destination for Onana, they face an uphill battle due to Everton’s steep £60 million valuation of the player, as per reports from Catalan outlet SPORT. Despite Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, identifying Onana as an ideal midfield addition, the club is deterred by the hefty asking price set by Everton.
In response, Barcelona is exploring creative strategies to secure players like Onana but anticipates stiff competition from Premier League clubs with greater financial resources. Chelsea, reportedly flush with cash, has purportedly tabled an initial offer to Everton, according to sources cited by SPORT.
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The potential departure of Onana, along with center-back Jarrad Branthwaite, could spark a bidding war, with Manchester United reportedly eyeing Branthwaite. Although Everton would ideally retain both players, they acknowledge the need to offload key assets to alleviate the club’s financial strain.
Everton’s season has been marred by penalties for breaching the Premier League’s Profit & Sustainability Rules, exacerbating their precarious league position. Currently positioned 16th in the standings, Everton is just two points clear of the relegation zone. Despite the challenges, Onana has been a standout performer, making 25 appearances and scoring twice, although he was substituted after a lackluster display in a recent match against Chelsea.