Why Everton should make a move for Denis Bouanga
As per French outlet Le10 Sport (h/t Liverpool Echo), Everton are interested in signing Saint-Etienne star Denis Bouanga, who is contracted until 2023 with the French outfit.
Bouanga, 25, rose through the ranks of Le Mans FC’s youth system and joined Lorient’s B team in 2014. After struggling to find game time with Lorient’s senior setup, he moved to Strasbourg, where he scored 5 goals in 18 games. He was once again on the move to Tours FC on loan where he racked up 16 goals and 6 assists in 37games.
The winger then joined Nimes in the summer of 2018 and his impressive performances earned him a move to Saint-Etienne last summer. He has been in terrific form for Claude Puel’s side and helped them avoid relegation. The report suggests that the French outfit want £13.3m for his services.
Everton, meanwhile, have endured a difficult 2019/20 campaign. They are currently in the 12th position in the league standings and are definitely out of the race to qualify for the Europa League. Carlo Ancelotti has a lot of work to be done in the summer if they are to progress in further campaigns.
For that to happen, Everton need to strengthen the squad in multiple positions. Defence has been one of the major reasons for their downfall. Thus, the manager should first focus on bringing in defensive reinforcements.
Everton need reinforcements on the flanks
Apart from a defensive signing, the manager should also bring in wingers to the squad. Theo Walcott, Alex Iwobi and Bernard are the only three wide men available at the manager’s disposal since Richarlison looks comfortable in the centre-forward role.
Walcott has disappointed so far with just 1 goal and 2 assists in 29 games and Iwobi has struggled with injuries. Bernard has done a decent job with 3 goals and 2 assists. But for Everton to push for a top six finish, more productivity is needed from the flanks. Thus, a winger is a must in the summer.
In that regard, signing Bouanga would be a good move by the club. The Gabonese international has been in fine form this season, racking up 10 goals and 3 assists in 26 Ligue 1 games.
He has also been a regular member of the Gabon national squad and could add depth to Ancelotti’s team. He is capable of featuring on either wing and his inclusion would be a massive boost to Toffees’ attacking unit.
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Verdict
With Walcott having just one more year left on his contract, Everton’s numbers in the wide areas would be reduced soon. And with a lack of quality on the wings, they are in dire need of in-form wingers. Thus, they should try to lure Bouanga to Merseyside this summer.
The 25-year-old has been in fine form for Saint-Etienne. Signing him would provide more depth and quality on the flanks for Everton.
