Why Christian Luyindama could strengthen Everton’s defence
According to Turkish outlet Fanatik (h/t Birmingham Mail) claim Everton are favourites to land in Galatasaray defender Christian Luyindama. However, the 26-year-old centre-back is being pursued by a number of other Premier League clubs like Wolves, Aston Villa, and Bournemouth, who are also interested in landing him.
The DR Congo star moved to the Turkish giants permanently just last summer from Belgian side Standard Liege for €8m. Prior to this, he had spent half a season on loan at Galatasaray, earning himself a permanent move to Istanbul this season.
His standout performances at the back during his loan spell meant he was an obvious name in the first-team line-up for the coming season and he did establish himself as a regular, starting in 10 of their first 11 matches.
However, he ruptured his cruciate ligament in November and has been on a comeback trail ever since. The centre-back has a current deal that extends until June 2022 but clubs are lining up the defender after his rock-solid displays at the back.
In his ten outings, Luyindama lost just two matches and won five times, signifying his role within the current squad. His defensive capabilities have also been the display, with the defender managing three clean sheets from as many games.
Meanwhile, Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti is on the lookout for some new faces in a bid to bolster his squad for next season. A string of poor displays in defence early in the season had led to the club slipping to the relegation zone.
However, Ancelotti’s arrival stabilised an inconsistent back-four, with the club climbing to 12th place in the league standings. However, having conceded 46 goals from 29 matches, Ancelotti would be well aware that he needs some defensive reinforcements to improve his side’s performance next season.
Also, the Toffees just have three defenders in their ranks, of whom just Mason Holgate has been impressive. Seasoned centre-backs Yerry Mina and Michael Keane have been far from impressive, triggering Ancelotti to go in pursuit of a new defender.
Thus, Luyindama would be a good fit at the Merseyside club, who desperately need an established defender to climb up the ladder next season.
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Verdict
Everton clearly need a defensive shake-up considering their poor display this season and who better than the reliable Luyindama. Also, having played at the highest level in different leagues, he might not take much time to adjust to the new surroundings at Goodison Park. Everton should, hence, make a move for him soon.
