Everton Set to Make Bid for £21m Player After Months of Behind-the-Scenes Work
Everton Football Club is poised to submit a bid for Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra, a 20-year-old midfielder who has been identified as a key target by Director of Football Kevin Thelwell. The Toffees have been working on the deal for several months, and with Amadou Onana’s £50m move to Aston Villa now complete, they are ready to firm up their interest in Diarra.
According to French news outlet L’Equipe, Everton has been working behind the scenes to secure a deal for Diarra, who has a contract until July 2028. However, Strasbourg is reluctant to sell, and the Senegal international’s impressive performances last season have attracted attention from other clubs.
Diarra made 35 appearances in all competitions for Strasbourg last season, scoring four goals and providing two assists from central midfield. He also demonstrated his versatility by playing on the left and right wing. His impressive form has led to comparisons with a ‘jack of all trades’ – a player who excels in many aspects of the game.
Strasbourg has already rejected €25m (£21m) offers from RC Lens and Wolves for Diarra, a significant fee for a relatively inexperienced 20-year-old. However, Everton is undeterred and believes that Diarra has the potential to develop into a £50m star.
The Toffees’ pursuit of Diarra is a refreshing change from their usual transfer strategy, which has often focused on signing established players. By targeting a young talent like Diarra, Everton is demonstrating its commitment to developing players for the future.
As the situation unfolds, Everton fans will be eagerly awaiting news of the bid and its potential outcome. Will the Toffees be able to secure a deal for Diarra, or will Strasbourg’s reluctance to sell prove a significant obstacle? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – Everton’s interest in Diarra is a testament to the club’s ambition and commitment to developing young talent.