Barcelona is reportedly setting its sights on Everton’s Amadou Onana, proposing an ambitious swap deal that could see the Premier League club choose from four Barcelona players. This strategic move aims to secure Onana’s services while potentially thwarting Manchester United’s and Arsenal’s interest in the midfielder. Onana, who joined Everton from Lille for £33 million in 2022, has quickly become a pivotal figure for the Toffees, contributing significantly in his debut season with 29 appearances and three goals. At just 22 years old, the Belgian international’s potential for growth makes him a highly sought-after asset among Europe’s elite clubs.
Background on Amadou Onana
Amadou Onana’s journey from Lille to Everton for a £33 million fee in 2022 marked the beginning of his ascent in English football. His immediate impact at Everton, characterized by his robust midfield presence and goal-scoring ability, has not gone unnoticed. With 29 appearances and three goals in his debut season, Onana has demonstrated his value on the field, attracting attention from the Premier League’s ‘big six,’ with Manchester United and Arsenal reportedly leading the chase. However, Everton’s valuation of Onana at around £80 million sets a high bar for potential suitors.
Barcelona’s Strategic Offer
In an intriguing turn of events, Barcelona has emerged as a strong contender for Onana’s signature, proposing a swap deal that includes the option for Everton to select from four Barcelona players. This offer reflects Barcelona’s determination to outmaneuver other interested parties, including Manchester United and Arsenal. The players reportedly on offer are Ansu Fati (currently on loan at Brighton), Clement Lenglet (on loan at Aston Villa), Sergino Dest (on loan at PSV Eindhoven), and Fermin Lopez. Each player brings unique qualities to the table, potentially addressing Everton’s needs for reinforcements in various positions.
The Players Offered by Barcelona
- Ansu Fati: The young forward, on loan at Brighton, has shown flashes of brilliance that hint at his potential to become a world-class talent. His inclusion in the deal could provide Everton with a dynamic attacking option.
- Clement Lenglet: The French defender, currently on loan at Aston Villa, offers experience and stability at the back, qualities that could bolster Everton’s defensive line.
- Sergino Dest: The American right-back, on loan at PSV Eindhoven, is known for his pace and attacking prowess from the defensive flank, addressing Everton’s need for improvements in the right-back position.
- Fermin Lopez: A versatile midfielder who can also play as a winger, Lopez could serve as a direct replacement for Onana, offering creativity and energy in the midfield.
The Implications of the Deal
This proposed swap deal underscores Barcelona’s creative approach to transfer negotiations, leveraging their squad depth to facilitate high-profile signings. For Everton, the prospect of acquiring a Barcelona player, along with potential financial compensation, presents an opportunity to strengthen their squad in preparation for the upcoming season. However, the success of this deal hinges on several factors, including the valuation of the players involved and Everton’s specific needs and strategic priorities.
Onana’s potential move to Barcelona would not only represent a significant step in his career but also highlight the evolving dynamics of the transfer market, where swap deals are becoming increasingly prevalent as clubs navigate financial constraints and seek mutually beneficial arrangements.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the situation surrounding Amadou Onana’s future remains fluid, with Barcelona, Manchester United, Arsenal, and other clubs closely monitoring developments. The outcome of this transfer saga will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for all parties involved, shaping their prospects for the upcoming season and beyond.