Everton are looking to bolster their defence before the transfer window shuts at the end of the month, and have reportedly set their sights on Chelsea‘s Malang Sarr.
According to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Everton are locked in a two-way battle with Bologna for the talented French centre-back.
Sarr rose through the ranks at Nice and made over 100 appearances for the senior team. His contract with the French club expired last year and he was snapped up by Chelsea for free. Sarr was loaned out to Porto last season but he didn’t make much of an impact, featuring just 19 times in all competitions.
His future at Stamford Bridge is up in the air. Thomas Tuchel has the likes of Thiago Silva, Cesar Azpilicueta, Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen, Kurt Zouma and Trevoh Chalobah at his disposal, which means Sarr will barely get any game time this season.
Thus, a move away is inevitable although it remains to be seen whether Chelsea ship him out on loan or offload him on a permanent basis. Sarr has four years left on his current contract.
Should Everton push to sign Malang Sarr?
Everton manager Rafa Benitez is in need of reinforcements at the back as he looks to steer the Toffees into contention for a European spot. The Spaniard currently has four centre-backs at his disposal — Michael Keane, Yerry Mina, Mason Holgate, and Ben Godfrey.
Keane is more or less a permanent fixture in the team, but Mina has blown hot and cold ever since his arrival from Barcelona in 2018. Holgate and Godfrey are both rather inexperienced and prone to making errors in crucial moments. Thus, Everton need an experienced centre-half who can partner Keane consistently.
In that regard, a move for Sarr does not make too much sense. The Frenchman is a promising talent, but he has no experience in the Premier League and would not be an upgrade on any of Everton’s current options.
Considering the fact that Everton are also interested in Barcelona’s Samuel Umtiti, it would make more sense for the club to prioritise a move for the World Cup-winning defender, who will bring with him a wealth of experience and pedigree.
At 22, Sarr has plenty of upside. But he needs to develop his game further before top teams can take a punt on him.