Reports from Spain suggest a bidding war could be brewing for Everton’s Amadou Onana. Arsenal and Manchester United are both reportedly preparing offers for the midfielder, putting pressure on FC Barcelona who have also expressed interest.
Barcelona’s interest and Everton’s price tag
Spanish outlet Sport reports that Barcelona is keen to sign Onana this summer. However, there’s a significant gap between Barcelona’s valuation and Everton’s asking price.
Everton are said to be seeking €60m, an amount considered “exaggerated” by Barcelona, while the Catalan club hopes to secure the transfer for around €40m, well below his current market value.
Arsenal and Manchester United enter the race
The situation becomes more complex for Barcelona as Arsenal and Manchester United have “shown their interest” in Onana according to Sport.
Both Premier League clubs reportedly “have the capacity” to meet Everton’s demands, potentially putting them in a stronger position than Barcelona.
The challenge for Barcelona
Barcelona faces an uphill battle. Not only must they find a way to bridge the gap in valuation, but they now also need to outbid two Premier League rivals with significant financial resources.
Everton’s recent improved form, along with a reduction in their points penalty from 10 to six, makes relegation less likely and could further strengthen their position in negotiations.
Arsenal’s need for midfield reinforcement
While the Gunners have excelled this season, midfield depth remains an area where the club definitely want to strengthen.
Onana’s dynamic style and potential would make him an exciting addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Next steps
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal and Manchester United will formalise their interest with concrete offers.
If they do, it could force Barcelona to either raise their bid or abandon their pursuit of the young Belgian midfielder.
Amadou Onana: A rising star in the Premier League
Key information
- Full Name: Amadou Zeund Georges Ba Mvom Onana
- Club: Everton FC
- Position: Defensive Midfield (can also play Central Midfield)
- Number: 8
- League: Premier League (First Tier)
- Joined Everton: August 9, 2022
- Contract Expires: June 30, 2027
- Date of Birth: August 16, 2001 (Age: 22)
- Place of Birth: Dakar, Senegal
- Citizenship: Belgium, Senegal
- Height: 1.95m
- Agent: BTFM (Onana is their highest profile client by far with the second on their list Jean-Charles Castelletto at FC Nates who is valued at around €3.5m)
- National Team: Belgium (9 Caps, 0 Goals)
- Current Market Value: €50.00m
- Performance Data (2023/24 Season)
- Competition: Premier League
- Appearances: 20
- Goals: 2
- Assists: 0
- Yellow Cards: 3
- Starting XI: 62% of matches
- Minutes Played: 1263 (63% of possible minutes)
- Goal Participation: 7%
Career trajectory
Amadou Onana’s rise has been meteoric. After developing in the youth systems of clubs like RSC Anderlecht and TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, he made his professional debut with Hamburger SV in 2020. His performances caught the eye of LOSC Lille, who signed him in 2021.
After a successful season in Ligue 1, Everton secured his signature in 2022, bringing him to the Premier League for €35m.
Playing style
Onana is a force in the midfield. His imposing physical presence (1.95m) allows him to dominate aerial duels and break up opposition attacks.
However, he’s far more than just a ball-winner. Onana possesses impressive technical ability, passing range, and a willingness to drive forward with the ball. These attributes make him a versatile and dynamic midfielder.
Market value and potential
Onana’s current market value of €50.00m reflects his immense potential and growing reputation. His performances for Everton, coupled with his status as a Belgian international, have attracted interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
With his contract running until 2027, Everton are in a strong position to hold onto their prized asset or command a significant transfer fee if they decide to sell.
International career
Onana chose to represent Belgium at the international level and made his senior debut in 2022. He has since become an important part of the Belgian national team setup.
He seems is likely to be a key figure for Belgium for years to come.
Future outlook
Amadou Onana is one of the most exciting young midfielders in European football. He has the potential to become a dominant force in the Premier League and a crucial player for Belgium on the international stage.
His continued development, wherever that takes place, will be fascinating to watch.
Additional notes
- Hamburger SV received a 20% sell-on fee from Onana’s transfer from LOSC Lille to Everton.