French reports claim Everton are eyeing a swoop for versatile youngster Ramy Bensebaini, and he could just be the solution to one of Marco Silva’s biggest problems.
What's the story?
According to L’Equipe, Everton and Stuttgart are both interested in the Rennes defender, and he is looking likely to leave France this summer.
Bensebaini had somewhat of a breakout season for Rennes last season, impressing at both left back and centre back, and even filling in as a defensive midfielder once or twice.
The 23 year-old, valued at £7.2m by Transfermarkt, already has 12 Algeria caps, and could fill a lot of the gaps in Everton’s ageing back line.
Stuttgart are reportedly the favourites, but the money and allure of the Premier League will surely win the race for the Toffees if they decide to pull the trigger.
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Why do Everton need him?
Marcel Brands and Silva have got a lot of work to do this summer, trimming an oversized squad and cutting the wage bill down in the process.
On the pitch, Silva seems intent on signing a new winger, with constant links to the likes of Richarlison and Mexico’s Hirving Lozano. His biggest problem however is in defence, where the Toffees were in complete disarray last season, especially away from home.
The defensive performances under Sam Allardyce improved when Phil Jagielka, Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman returned to full fitness, but Silva has to inject some life into an ageing defence.
That’s where Bensebaini comes in, a tenacious, aggressive young defender who can fill gaps at multiple positions.
Where would he fit?
The 23 year-old is best as a centre back, where he would be rivalling the likes of Michael Keane and Mason Holgate for playing time, and could also fill in at left back if the Toffees can’t find their long term replacement for Baines this summer.
The Algerian defender averaged nearly two tackles and over five clearances per game last season, while winning nearly three aerial duels per game.
He is quite simply a beast in the air, and is not afraid to put his body on the line for the cause, something the fans at Goodison will love.
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The young defender is a good dribbler, carrying the ball forward very well at times last season, but he will need to improve his passing and final ball, especially if he fills in at left back.
Still, Bensebaini's work ethic and versatility will appeal massively to Silva and Brands, and if he can get off to a good start in a blue shirt he could become a fan favourite in no time.
So, Everton fans, would you like to see a move for Bensebaini? Let us know your thoughts by voting in the poll below…