According to a recent report by the Daily Star, Everton are looking to secure the services of Mario Lemina from Southampton before the summer transfer window comes to a halt next week. The same source has revealed that the Toffees are trying to bolster their midfield even further by adding the Gabon international while the Saints are demanding at least £18m for their prized asset in this off-season.
Lemina’s Struggles At The St. Mary’s Stadium Last Season
The Saints midfield ace has already shown a few glimpses of what he is capable of in the English top-flight. However, he has had his fair share of struggles to stay match-fit at the South-coast club thus far. Lemina was a sporadic feature at Southampton last season even when he was fit and available for selection. Therefore, a change of scenery this summer could be ideal for his long-term growth as a player.
The Gabonese talent made 23 appearances for the Saints in the previous campaign, finding the back of the net on one occasion while creating one assist on all fronts. Lemina has also represented Gabon in 15 international matches while registering two goals for his nation in the process.
The 25-year-old is about to embark upon the best years of his playing career which the Merseyside outfit could look to benefit from over the next few seasons.
What Will The Southampton Prospect Bring To Goodison Park?
The Premier League sensation is highly versatile as he can operate in multiple positions across the field. He predominantly fills in as a defensive midfielder but can play as a right-back if needed.
Lemina has decent pace in his locker which helps him complete some darting runs from midfield. The Gabonese playmaker can also distribute the ball accurately at the middle of the park and can create chances for others around him. However, he does not have the physical strength to win some of the 50-50 aerial duels in midfield which makes him a liability on the pitch. Thus, it would be wise for the ex-Serie A midfielder to start working on improving his strength in the upcoming campaign.
Lemina’s Addition: Right Choice For The Toffees?
The addition of Lemina will undeniably improve the overall depth of Marco Silva’s squad at Goodison Park. However, he has still not proven his worth to justify a regular starting berth at the Merseyside club. The Toffees should only sign him if they are willing to be patient with him. Otherwise, it makes sense for Silva to opt for other more reliable midfield options in the transfer market.
