Everton are reportedly weighing up a January move for Manchester United forward Anthony Elanga.
The Sweden international, 20, has struggled to secure first-team football at Old Trafford under new manager Erik ten Hag. He is understood to be growing frustrated with his bit-part role, despite statistically making 14 appearances already in all competitions this season.
According to The Daily Mail, Everton are keen on signing Anthony Elanga from Man United, possibly on a loan deal until the end of the season. However, they aren’t the only Premier League club interested in the young forward’s signature.
Man United boss Erik ten Hag is looking to add a forward in the upcoming transfer window to replace the departed Cristiano Ronaldo, which has left Elanga evaluating his future. The report adds Everton boss Frank Lampard wants to bolster his attacking unit and has revived his interest in Elanga, having tried signing the 20-year-old last summer.
Anthony Elanga to Everton—What will he bring to the table?
Despite guiding Everton to safety last season, Frank Lampard’s Everton are again embroiled in a relegation dogfight 12 months on with their late Boxing Day defeat to fellow strugglers Wolves. Things are already tense for Lampard and he must find a way to get the Toffees’ season back on track.
The January transfer window could be of help for Lampard, who seemingly wants to add a winger and a striker to his toothless attack. Everton have only netted 12 goals in 16 Premier League games, which has accentuated the need for attacking reinforcements.
Anthony Elanga has emerged as a target for the Toffees. Elanga enjoyed his breakthrough at Man United last season under interim manager Ralf Rangnick but has found starting opportunities, particularly in the Premier League, tough to come by. The Swede is frustrated with a lack of game time this season and wants to leave the club on loan, making Everton a probable destination.
Predominantly a left-winger, Elanga can be deployed as a striker or on the right flank, and he has the qualities to breathe new life into Everton’s attack. Pacey, agile and industrious, the youngster could link up well with the likes of Anthony Gordon, Demarai Gray and Alex Iwobi in the final third and create goals for the Toffees.
The Swede is highly rated at Man United but needs regular game time to avoid stagnation. So, it is not too surprising to see Everton exploring a deal as there is certainly room for Elanga to come in and make an impact. Plus, the 20-year-old’s explosive pace and directness against tiring defences could be a lethal weapon to have from the bench for Lampard, if the manager intends to go down that route time and again.
All in all, Everton signing Anthony Elanga on loan from Man United for the remainder of the season would be a good move on, at least on paper.