Everton are looking to shore up their backline this summer and are reportedly plotting a move for Barcelona centre-back Clement Lenglet.
According to Sport, reinforcing the defence is new manager Rafa Benitez’s top priority, with the Spaniard setting his sights on Lenglet. The report states that Everton are pushing for an initial season-long loan deal with an obligation to buy.
The France international has been an integral part of the Barcelona defence ever since his arrival from Sevilla in 2018. The 26-year-old has made 133 appearances for the Catalan giants in all competitions, winning a league title, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.
But his form dipped last season and Barcelona are now open to listening to offers for the Frenchman.
Barcelona’s dismal financial state means they must offload several players in the summer to free up their wage bill. Lenglet, who has five years left on his current contract, is one of the players that could be shown the door.
Clement Lenglet to Everton – A solid defensive option for Benitez?
Everton conceded 48 goals in the Premier League last season, the third-highest among teams that finished in the top 11.
The Merseyside lack a leader at the back to partner Michael Keane. Yerry Mina has flattered to deceive since his arrival from Barcelona in 2018. The likes of Mason Holgate and Ben Godfrey are decent options but lack experience.
That’s where Lenglet comes in. The Frenchman will add plenty of solidity and experience to the Everton defence. Lenglet’s biggest assets are his ability to track runners, his reading of the game and his physical presence.
Last season, Lenglet averaged 2 clearances, 1.1 tackles and 1 interception per game in La Liga. He also won 1.8 aerial duels per game, proving he can match up to the strongest of attackers.
Lenglet is also great with the ball at his feet. He can start attacks from the back with his passing range and ability to dribble out of pressure. He completed over 92% of his attempted passes last season.
The Frenchman is exactly the kind of player Everton should target as they look to build on their 10th-place finish last season and push for a European spot.
Stats via Whoscored