Everton in the race to sign £22m-rated defensive star: The ideal Koeman type player?

Transfer Story

The Hull City defender, Harry Maguire has been linked with a move to Everton after having an impressive season with the Tigers. The 24-year old has been an eccentric figure in the defensive half of Hull, despite their relegation back to the second tier.

The defender has been the only silver lining in the otherwise miserable season for Hull. The Englishman has only a year left on his contract and with Hull getting relegated, the 24-year old might force a move out of the club.

Rather than losing the player for free next summer, Hull should cash in on their defender with the ex-Wigan player estimated to cost around £22m.

Ronald Koeman, who likes his centre-backs to be flamboyant and aggressive, has been impressed with the unconventional and vocal defending techniques exuded by the Englishman and it comes as no surprise that he wants to prise away the individual from KCOM stadium.

Let’s take a look at the stats of the Englishman and evaluate his contribution to the Toffees.

Player stats

• The Englishman has been a key figure at the back featuring in 29 appearances for the club, contributing 2 goals and 2 assists in the process.
• The player has a pass success rate of 76% and also made a total of 11 key passes for the team.
• Nearly attempting two successful tackles a game, Maguire can do the work of cleaning up at the back.
• Towering at 6’2″ the player is a massive threat in set-pieces and also is amazing at aerial duels making him a coveted centre-back for any manager. (Stats via Whoscored)

What’ll he offer the club?

Koeman is eyeing a top five finish next season and he needs to bolster his defence in order to do that. This past season, Everton conceded 44 goals. With Phil Jagielka, Ashley Williams and Leighton Baines all on the wrong of end of 30, Koeman is desperate to infuse some young blood and exuberance at the back and the addition of Maguire might just provide them with that.

It should come as no surprise that the Dutchman is interested in the individual who has an aggressive and bold outlook in his gameplay.

Worth the money?

£22m is no doubt value for money considering the attributes and features that he would bring to the side. With him already having experience of playing in the Premier League there is no room for any lingering doubt that he won’t be able to cope. Koeman should go all out in pursuit of the defender.