Mattias Svanberg in action for Bologna against Genoa (Getty Images)
As per Forza Italian Football (h/t Liverpool Echo), Everton are lining up a bid for Bologna midfielder Mattias Svanberg ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Svanberg, 21, spent time at the academy of Bunkeflo IF before joining Malmo’s U17 side in his homeland. Rising through Malmo’s youth ranks, he was promoted to the club’s senior setup in the summer of 2015. He made 47 appearances for the Swedish giants, scoring 6 goals and providing 11 assists before moving to Italy with Bologna in the summer of 2018.
Since his arrival, he has become a regular member of the squad and has helped his side reach the 10th position in the league table this term. His impressive performances have also attracted a lot of interest from the Premier League. And clubs like Bournemouth and Arsenal are also interested in securing his services, as per the report.
The Toffees, meanwhile, have managed to bounce back from further humiliation since the arrival of Carlo Ancelotti in December. After the sacking of Marco Silva, their form was reignited under Duncan Ferguson and Ancelotti has made them a better side in the last few months.
However, with the season coming to an end, the manager will have the chance to start from scratch in the new campaign. Thus, to fare better and progress in further campaigns, Ancelotti has to bring in reinforcements to the squad.
While there is a change to be made in multiple positions, the manager should focus on strengthening the midfield, first and foremost. Andre Gomes, Tom Davies and Gylfi Sigurdsson are the only three attack-minded midfielders in the squad.
However, they have not been in the best of their forms throughout the campaign. Gomes struggled with injuries and was out of action for several months but he has not been convincing since his return. And with limited options in midfield, signing a midfielder in the summer would be a wise decision.
To that end, Svanberg would be a suitable option for the Toffees. The Swedish international is capable of operating from both the advanced position and also in a deeper role. Though he has managed just 1 assist in 19 league games, Everton should take a gamble on him in order to add some much-needed depth to the midfield department.
He has the ability to succeed and the fact that Arsenal are interested in securing his services shows his quality. He is just 21 and has a lot of room for development. And under the guidance of Ancelotti, he can turn into a key player in the future for Everton.
With a lack of quality and depth, the Toffees are in dire need of midfielders. And Svanberg would provide them with an extra option in the middle of the park. With experience, he can turn into a Premier League material. Thus, Everton should make a move for the youngster this summer.