According to well-known Brazilian journalist, Eduardo Gabardo, Arsenal are interested in the services of Everton Soares. It is believed that the Gunners are one of two clubs to launch an enquiry on the Gremio winger, who has impressed in the Copa America this summer. But, Arsenal could face stiff competition from European giants Paris Saint-Germain in the pursuit of Everton.
Everton’s success in the Brazilian league
Everton was initially promoted to the Gremio senior side way back in 2014. And after a slow start to his professional career, the Brazilian netted four goals in 14 matches in the 2015 season. Since then, he has become a first-team regular for Rei de Copas, plundering 38 goals and providing ten assists in 147 games in all competitions.
In the 2018 campaign, Everton enjoyed the most productive season of his career, scoring ten goals and mustering three assists. And in ongoing 2019 edition of the Brazilian Serie A, the 23-year-old has netted three goals in six games.
As a result of his consistent performances in the Brazilian top flight, Everton earned his first international cap back in September and has since become a prominent part of the Selecao setup. He notably starred in the recently concluded Copa America as hosts Brazil ended up lifting the trophy even without star player Neymar.
And much of the credit should be attributed to Everton, who became the joint top scorer in the competition with three goals in six games.
What can Everton bring to the table?
A left winger by trade, Everton’s style of play can be compared to Neymar. An explosive dribbler, who can deceive the defenders with his quick feet and immaculate control on the ball. He has a box of trickery that gives him the edge over a defender in isolated 1v1 situations.
Everton also has a knack for scoring goals, and this is due to the tendency to move into central areas of the pitch and open up both sides rather than staying out wide and providing width. But, what makes him such a sought-after attacker is the technical prowess that allows him to link-up with attackers in the final third and breach the opposition backline with quick one-twos.
Should Arsenal make a move for Everton?
Everton will undoubtedly solve Arsenal’s problems in the offensive department. The Gunners have lacked the services of a natural winger ever since the departure of Alexis Sanchez. And the 23-year-old, in that regard, could be a logical target. The Gremio star could even turn out to be a better option than Wilfried Zaha as far as potential is concerned.
That being said, Everton is also a risky choice as well given his lack of experience in European football. Besides, he is likely to cost a fortune – something Arsenal really can’t afford at the moment given their slender transfer budget this summer.
