The transfer deadline in the Premier League is less than two weeks away and Marco Silva’s Everton are now left searching for a midfielder, as they look to replace PSG bound Idrissa Gueye.
The Senegalese international is expected to complete a €30m move to France in the coming days and the Toffees have now identified Chelsea outcast Tiemoue Bakayoko as a potential replacement for Gueye, suggest reports from RMC.
Lucas Tousart and Jean-Philippe Gbamin are also on the wish-list for Silva but is Bakayoko the right man for Everton?
Bakayoko And His Style Of Play
Having moved to Chelsea after a title-winning campaign with Monaco in Ligue 1, Bakayoko failed to make an impact on the squad under Antonio Conte at that time, registering two goals and two assists in 24 league starts.
He was sent out on loan to AC Milan last summer as Sarri deemed him surplus to requirements, and was a regular in the first team in Italy, playing 31 Serie A games at the heart of the midfield for the club.
Known for his strength in hold up play and ability to break up play just outside the box, Bakayoko is a hard man to beat in the midfield. He is gritty, happy to throw himself around and acts as a cover for the backline with good effect.
He is technically sound and can dribble out of tight spaces while his vision allows him to set up attacks from the deep.
But he is defensive-minded midfielder and adds very little in attack, which makes him a bit of a liability especially if you don’t have an established attacking name in midfield.
Bakayoko does have previous experience in England and playing in a role he prefers, he may be a solid addition to the squad at Goodison Park.
Will He Fit In?
Silva played Gueye as a part of a two-man midfield, with Andre Gomes or Morgan Schneiderlin responsible to carry the ball into attack.
In such a role, Bakayoko can play to his strengths and could be a genuine match-winner in tough games for the Toffees.
Tom Davies is the only other option for the midfield roles at the club, so replacing Gueye is of utmost importance for the club this summer and Bakayoko is not a bad option.
Chelsea are not too keen on retaining his services, which could make this deal less expensive.
Bakayoko does have the potential to be the best in his role in the league, playing for the right club and at just 24, is a risk well worth taking for Everton.
