Everton are plotting a loan move for Chelsea defender Fikayo Tomori. Tomori had a breakthrough season last time around, as Blues manager Frank Lampard promoted him to the senior squad, handing him appearances in 22 games in all competitions.
But, it seems that Chelsea are willing to allow the 22-year-old to go out on loan to develop his game, with Everton reportedly the favourites to land him on a season-long loan. As per ESPN, Everton have pipped the likes of Newcastle United and Rennes in the queue to sign the youngster.
Fikayo Tomori has come through the ranks at Chelsea, making his debut in 2016. He went on a string of loan moves, including a season-long loan to Derby County, who were then managed by Frank Lampard.
Fikayo Tomori: A wise move by Ancelotti?
Fikayo Tomori had a solid first half of the 2019-20 season under Chelsea, and his good form even earned him a call-up to the English national team. The young centre-back showed tenacity in his tackling, as well as good technical ability with his passing. He even showcased his shooting skills with a fantastic long-range goal against Wolves.
Tomori averaged 1.9 tackles and 1.5 interceptions in the Premier League last season and showed that he was not afraid to put his foot in to make key tackles. The 22-year-old defender also displayed his good passing ability, averaging 76.7 passes per game in the Premier League last season. Those are fantastic numbers for a central defender and he perfectly fits the mould of a ball-playing centre-back.
The Englishman played as part of a back-two as well as a back-three last season, and he has previously even played as a right-back. Tomori would be a good signing for Everton, who now have gifted players in midfield and attack, but lack the depth at the back.
While the signings of James Rodriguez, Allan and Abdoulaye Doucoure adds creativity and strength in midfield, the defence looks rather weak. Yerry Mina had a decent season last time around, while Mason Holgate also put on a few strong performances.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti will most likely play Mina and Michael Keane at the back, but he doesn’t have any other options apart from Holgate at centre-back. Tomori could be a backup to the central defenders and play in cup games or when one of the two first-choice defenders are unavailable.
The signing of Fikayo Tomori could be a smart move, considering his performances last season and one that Ancelotti should wrap up with the season set to start in a couple of days.