Verona's Serbian midfielder Darko Lazovic (L) and Verona's Albanian defender Marash Kumbulla react at the end of the Italian Serie A football match AC Milan vs Verona on February 2, 2020 at the San Siro stadium in Milan. (Getty Images)
Back in February, Sports Lens (h/t Daily Post) suggested that Everton were keen to make a move for Hellas Verona youngster Marash Kumbulla. However, no such talks have progressed since then.
The report claimed that the highly-rated defender could be available for €30m but they could face competition as clubs like Inter Milan, Borussia Dortmund and Napoli are also interested in securing his services.
Born in Italy, the Albanian international came through the ranks of Hellas Verona’s youth system and excelled with the club’s youth teams. He made his senior bow in the 2018/19 campaign and since then, he has been a regular member of the squad.
The youngster enjoyed a brilliant 2019/20 campaign, where he made 25 league appearances and was one of the standout performers for the club, helping them finish in the 9th position in the league standings.
His impressive performances also earned him a call up to the Albanian national squad as he made his international debut last October. Kumbulla has gone from strength to strength in the last couple of years and is one of the best young talents in Serie A.
The Toffees have been busy in the transfer window, strengthening their midfield unit. However, Carlo Ancelotti should also focus on bringing reinforcements to the backline, that conceded 56 goals in the last season.
At the moment, Everton have just three recognized centre-backs in their ranks. Michael Keane and Mason Holgate have been regular starters whereas Colombian ace Yerry Mina has fallen down the pecking order. The former Barcelona man missed the majority of the season due to injury and is completely out of form.
Young Jarrad Branthwaite is the only other option in central defence. But the 18-year-old has just broken into the senior squad and isn’t experienced. Thus, the Merseysiders should consider bringing in a centre-back this summer.
In that regard, Kumbulla would be a fantastic addition to the squad. The Albanian was brilliant for Verona last season and has shown great potential that belies his tender age. He can be a crucial player for the Toffees next season if he is able to continue with the fine form and develop under the guidance of Ancelotti.
At 20, Kumbulla has a huge future ahead of him and the Toffees should be able to enjoy his best. With limited quality at the back, it is clear that they are in dire need of central defenders for the upcoming campaign. Thus, reigniting their interest in the Albanian international would be a wise decision by the club.
