Prem giants now ‘make approach’ for Everton ‘octopus’, it’s not Jarrad Branthwaite

Everton have received interest for a key player during the January transfer window.

The January window has only been open for a few days, but Everton already face a tough challenge to keep hold of one of their best players.

Amadou Onana joined The Toffees from Lille in 2022 and caught the eye pretty quickly, attracting interest from the likes of Manchester United after making 33 appearances in his first season in the Premier League.

After a tough start to the new term, Onana has looked even better in recent months and could well be on his way to reaching his ‘massive potential’ in years to come.

While the Belgian was praised for his ‘superb’ performance against Crystal Palace last night, it appears that Everton already face a battle to keep hold of him in the coming weeks.

According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal have already made an approach to sign Onana this month.

The report claims that Mikel Arteta is a ‘huge admirer’ of the 22-year-old ‘octopus’ and is eager to strengthen his midfield, despite splashing £105 million on Declan Rice in the summer.

The Gunners had already been linked with a number of alternatives including Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz, however their attention has now turned to Onana.

MORE EVERTON STORIES
Everton have long-demanded a very high fee for the midfielder, and it doesn’t look like that will be any different in January.

It is thought that Sean Dyche‘s side could demand as high as £90m for the Belgium international as they look to avoid losing a star man halfway through the season.

Will Amadou Onana leave Everton?
Amadou Onana has been one of Everton’s best performers this term and remains a regular under Sean Dyche.

Interested clubs refused to meet Everton’s huge demands back in the summer, while he is arguably showing much more of his potential now.

However, it is very unlikely that anyone will be willing to pay £90m in January – and that is exactly what The Toffees want.

Losing Onana would be massive for Everton, and it is unlikely they would even be able to replace him with anyone as good – even if they did take such a fee for him.

The Merseyside outfit’s position in the Premier League will make bringing in quality players a bit harder, as they will know they will be thrown straight into a relegation battle and could well be playing Championship football in eight months time.