Everton are showing great interest in signing centre-back Axel Tuanzebe on a free transfer, after the 28-year-old left Burnley in the summer.
Tuanzebe impressed in glimpses for Burnley last season, despite the team being relegated. Injury problems limited him to just 14 Premier League games, but that hasn’t deterred several clubs from signing up for his signature.
Mohamed Salah had to grab his head: “Rarely got a gift and a suggestion on the first day in Trabzon”
Everton, Brentford and Saudi Arabian clubs are all interested in the free agent, who recently returned from the World Cup with DR Congo.
Moyes hunts for reinforcements for European song
David Moyes wants to strengthen his defensive position to build on last year’s midday finish and challenge for a European place. The Scotsman and the management at Hill Dickinson Stadium believe Tuanzebe would be a wise addition to the squad, and have therefore contacted the player’s representatives.
So far, Everton have had a quiet summer. Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough and Christian Nørgaard from Arsenal are the only new faces, as well as permanent deals for Tyrique George and Merlin Röhl. But if the Toffees are to really fight for European qualification, they need more signings before the window closes.
Battle for signature
According to Ben Jacobs, Everton are among the clubs who want to secure Tuanzebe. Brentford and clubs from the Saudi Pro League are also in the picture, and the 28-year-old is carefully considering his options after an impressive World Cup performance.
Tuanzebe, who has been described by injury-hit FIFA as “rock solid”, spent just one year at Burnley after joining Bosman from Ipswich Town last summer. Since leaving Manchester United in 2021, he has had a wandering life with stints at Aston Villa, Napoli, Stoke, Ipswich and Burnley.
Now Everton can give him a more permanent home. The stability of the northwest club could prove crucial – and potentially outweigh more lucrative offers from the Middle East.
Does Everton need a centre-back?
Extra width in the squad is never wrong, and if Everton can secure Tuanzebe for a reasonable salary, it is by no means a bad signing. Nevertheless, the Toffees already boast a wealth of options in central defence.
We mention a lot.
James Tarkowski
Michael Keane
Jarrad Branthwaite
Jake O’Brien
Elijah Campbell
Read on F7: What about Martin Ødegaard now that Arsenal sign Newcastle captain
