Everton are reportedly interested in signing Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma as the transfer deadline day edges closer. Zouma has been with the Blues since 2014, and spent the 2018-19 season on loan at Everton, making 36 appearances in all competitions for the Toffees.
As per Le10 Sport, Chelsea are willing to listen to offers for the Frenchman, with Everton as well as Leicester City interested in signing him. The report also states that the Blues are demanding a fee of around €40 million for Zouma, and that the clubs are having discussions about a deal for the Frenchman.
Zouma has made over 110 appearances for the club and has spent two seasons on loan, first to Stoke City and then Everton. The 25-year-old has three years remaining on his contract with the club.
Kurt Zouma to Everton – The final piece of the jigsaw?
Everton have got off to a flying start in the Premier League, and they are one of three teams in the league to win all three of their opening games, with the other two being city rivals, Liverpool, and Leicester City. The Toffees have made smart additions in midfield in the summer transfer window, which has galvanised the club managed by Carlo Ancelotti.
Although they now have a strong squad, the Italian manager does not have many options at centre-back. Ancelotti’s three main options in central defence are Michael Keane, Yerry Mina and Mason Holgate, all three of whom are good defenders, but the options below them are limited.
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Teenager Jarrad Branthwaite is the other option for Ancelotti at the back, but he is too young and inexperienced to play in the Premier League. Holgate has already picked up an injury, which has left the Toffees a bit stretch at the back already this season. Things could get worse when the games come thick and fast around December if the squad isn’t strengthened.
Kurt Zouma would be a sensible addition to the Everton team as he has speed, good passing ability, and Premier League experience, while also excelling in the air.
The Frenchman has not been the most consistent of defenders at Chelsea, but he could be a useful backup option for the Toffees, and push the first-team regulars.
Zouma’s prior spell with Everton could help him settle down quickly with the Merseyside club, and will only strengthen Everton’s hopes of breaking into the top 6.
Everton have started well and will need depth in all positions to maintain consistency this season. Their attack and midfield looks well-balanced and has depth, and signing a defender like Zouma could be the last piece of the jigsaw.