Everton are reportedly eyeing a move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Lemar to strengthen their squad.
The Toffees were far from consistent in the 2019-20 Premier League campaign as they finished twelfth in the final league standings.
Carlo Ancelotti managed to bring a more structured approach, but needs to stamp his authority on the squad of the side are to progress and finish higher up the table next season.
Lemar has emerged as one of Everton’s prime transfer targets, according to Le10 Sport, amid rumours that the 24-year-old is set to leave the club Stadium this summer.
The Frenchman moved to Atletico for €70million a couple of seasons ago from AS Monaco, but his future at the Spanish capital seems to be hanging in the balance. Lemar has struggled to make his presence felt on the pitch under the tutelage of Diego Simeone, and could move elsewhere to resurrect his career.
Thomas Lemar to Everton – A top option for Ancelotti
Lemar burst onto the scene as a fleet-footed winger during his time at AS Monaco, but in recent years, he has operated as a central attacking midfielder as well as a central midfielder. His versatility will hold him in good stead at Everton.
The French international possesses a great left foot and comes up with thunderous strikes every now and then. With pace to burn and a bag full of tricks, he could be the x-factor that Everton need to break defences or turn the game on its head.
Lemar is also a tenacious player which is why he can be used in multiple roles. The Frenchman works hard and chases down opposition players out of possession, and is good at holding on to the ball too despite his relatively short stature.
By no means is he a finished product, but working with Ancelotti, who is one of the best in the game, could help him reclaim his form and develop further as a player. There will be pressure at Everton as well, who could be more ruthless under Ancelotti, and Lemar will have to be more consistent.
Lemar will not have it all his way if he moves to Everton and will have to fight for a place in the starting lineup. Ancelotti is building a young attack with the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison, and Lemar, who is still only 24 despite playing for the likes of Monaco and Atletico Madrid, would fit right in.
Statistics Credits: Whoscored
