According to the latest reports from French media outlet Le10Sport, Everton have sent a new offer to Lille for midfielder Thiago Mendes. It’s being said that this is not the first attempt from the Merseyside club to sign the defensive midfielder. Reports mention that Marco Silva is eyeing Mendes as a contingency plan as Idrissa Gueye who is being linked heavily with a move to Paris Saint Germain.
The French heavyweights have been linked with Gueye for quite some time now, and Silva is right in thinking about alternatives. So far Everton have managed to fend off interest from the Ligue 1 champions, but the upcoming summer could be a crucial one for PSG.
27-year-old Mendes made 37 appearances in all competitions for Lille last season, and he even went on to contribute with four assists even though he played as a defensive midfielder. Everton would be looking to take giant strides this term under Marco Silva after the Portuguese manager was appointed with a lot of gung ho last season.
Silva was under pressure at one point because results weren’t going his way, but he ended the season strongly, and quite a few fans would hope for a big season from the manager who is now in his second full year at the Goodison.
Can Mendes replace Gueye?
Gueye has been a vital cog in Everton’s team for quite some time now, and the Senegalese international has been a crucial player for his side in the defensive midfield role. His energy, reading of the game and ability to launch and support attacks have come in handy. However, he is 29 now, and we feel that if a reasonable offer comes for the player, then Everton should sell him.
It cannot be said that Mendes is on the same level as Gueye, but he can fill in as a defensive midfielder.
What will Mendes bring at Goodison Park?
The 27-year-old is known for his impressive work rate, which is often necessary to thrive as a defensive midfielder. Mendes is a well-rounded player with decent overall attributes. He is physically strong and has an impressive burst of speed. His reading of the game is also worth mentioning as the Brazilian often comes up with crucial interceptions and tackles. He has impressive close control skills and has that flair to his game to go past his man on occasions. Probably that has something to do with him being a Brazilian.
The pace of the Premier League might trouble him initially, but once he settles in, the midfielder should be able to replace Gueye. However, it remains to be seen whether he would be able to hit the heights of the Senegalese international in Everton colours.
