According to Tuttomercatoweb, Everton have been rebuffed in their attempts to sign Cengiz Under. It is believed that they have had their €28 million bid for the Turkish international rejected by AS Roma. The Italian giants value Under very highly at the club but may have to release him this summer, following a turbulent season.
So, should the Toffees return with a better offer?
Cengiz Under’s injury-plagued season at Roma
Under joined Roma back in 2017 in a €14 million move from Istanbul Basaksehir. The playmaker was then touted as the next big thing in Turkish football. And two years later, Under has somehow managed to live up to the expectations in Roma, having impressed in the past two seasons in the Serie A.
Indeed, the 21-year-old has been involved 27 goals in just 64 matches for the Giallorossi in all competitions. But, his progress has mainly been marred by frequent injuries. Especially during the 2018/19 campaign, Under suffered three different injury spells that kept him out on the sidelines for almost three months combined.
Hence, it comes as no surprise that the Turkish international has mustered a little over 2,600 minutes of league football since joining Roma two years ago. However, it’s also fair to mention that the youngster, at times, has been overlooked in terms of team selection even when he has been fit.
What can Under bring to the table?
Under’s style of play can be compared to Juventus superstar Paulo Dybala. Much like the Argentine, Under likes to move forward whenever he receives the ball. His quick feet and tremendous balance allow him to drift past defenders even at full speed.
Primarily a right winger, the 21-year-old loves to cut inside and have a shot on goal, which is why he has averaged 1.5 shots per game this past season, almost half of which have come from outside the box. But, Under can also stay out wide and get to the byline to produce a chipped cross into the six-yard area.
However, the Turk often appears tentative with the ball and is very easy to be shrugged off the ball. Furthermore, he is also inconsistent, which lays doubts as to whether or not he will be a success at a higher level of football.
Should Everton persist their interest on Under?
As iterated earlier, Under is not the most consistent attacker in Europe. And the Roma playmaker also lacks the physical prowess that is essential not only in the Premier League but also under the tactical philosophy of Marco Silva.
Also, Everton will likely have to dig deep in their pockets given the potential of the player. Hence, making a move for Under might not be the most prudent decision by the Everton board, and the Toffees should drop their interest in the Turkish international.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
