Everton eyeing a late move for Mexican striker: Is he the real deal?

Transfer story

Ronald Koeman has been making waves in the transfer market ever since the beginning. He has brought in the likes of Wayne Rooney, Gylfi Sigurdsson, and Sandro Ramirez to strengthen his front line. The Dutch manager has been quite happy with how things have turned out for Everton in the transfer market. Wayne Rooney has been an inspirational figure and has led the way with some influential performances.

The Dutch manager wants to add another forward before the transfer window ends. It is the deadline day and according to reports, Everton have approached Benfica to sign their talented forward Raul Jimenez.

Ronald Koeman believes that he will add more firepower to the attack, which in turn can help Everton better their start of the season performances.

Player’s statistics

Raul Jimenez has been one of the most talked about centre-forwards in recent times. However, his career has never taken off as it was predicted. He played for Atletico Madrid before moving to Portuguese club Benfica. Despite being a prolific goal scorer, injuries hampered his growth last year. He missed as many as 19 matches for Benfica due to various injury obstructions. In 2017 itself, he has had a groin injury, a sprained ankle and a muscle injury due to which he has often missed matches.

Last season, Raul Jimenez made 19 appearances for Benfica and managed to score seven goals. He created three key chances.

In those 19 appearances, he came as a substitute 13 times. Hence, he did not have enough time to leave an impact on the pitch. However, in the limited opportunities, Raul Jimenez proved his talent and worth to Benfica.

What can Koeman get from him? 

Raul Jimenez’s case is a very interesting one. There is not much time in the window and Everton cannot negotiate with Benfica. Everton might have to budge after all to get their man from the Portuguese club. Jimenez is an excellent footballer who is reaching at the peak of his prowess now.

A move away from England can only benefit him as the quality of competition there is much better than in Portugal. However, doubts remain about his recent injury struggles.

The Christmas period can get very hectic and English football’s physicality is brutal. Many star players have found it difficult to adapt and adjust to the demands of football there.

Jimenez will need a lot of time to develop as a footballer based on England’s demands as he will have to improve his physical standards. However, his eye in front of the goal is laudable and Everton has to solve a dilemma before cracking the deal. Benfica have supplied many stars to English football like David Luiz, Nemanja Matic and most recently Victor Lindelof and Éderson. Everton would have to move fast if they want their desired player.