According to a recent report by Corriere di Verona (cited and translated by Sport Witness), Everton are in the race to secure the signature of Hellas Verona centre-back Marash Kumbulla. The same source has also revealed that the Toffees will face stiff competition from Chelsea, Manchester United, Eintracht Frankfurt, Lazio and Fiorentina in pursuit of the Serie A defender. However, it is understood that Inter Milan are currently leading the chase to land the Albanian youngster (via Corriere di Verona).
Kumbulla’s Remarkable Rise In Italian Football
The 19-year-old has been a sporadic feature in the Verona first-team but has still managed to put in a string of commanding displays at the back this season. He has featured in 19 matches for Ivan Jurić’s side this term and has one goal to his name across all competitions.
Kumbulla has averaged 1.7 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and 2.5 clearances per game in the Serie A (stats via whoscored). His incredible contributions had not gone unnoticed as he earned his first senior cap for the Albanian national team when he came off the bench to play against Moldova in a UEFA Euro qualifier back in October.
If the talented teenager can continue improving his game, then there is no doubt that he will play an influential role for his country in the coming years.
What Are The Albanian Prospect’s Best Attributes?
Kumbulla is primarily a centre-back but can also fill in as a defensive midfielder if required. Even though he is still quite a raw talent, the one-time Albania international has shown glimpses of his potential this season. The Serie A defensive ace can read the danger early and has built a reputation for making some vital interceptions and last-gasp clearances for his side.
Will Kumbulla Be The Right Choice For The Toffees?
The Toffees need to build for the future if they are to achieve success under Carlo Ancelotti’s stewardship. Therefore, it makes a lot of sense for them to go after a promising defender like Kumbulla who has the potential to become world-class in the future.
The Hellas Verona talent will be a decent choice for the Merseyside outfit as he will provide some added cover for the likes of Yerry Mina, Mason Holgate and Michael Keane at Goodison Park. Furthermore, Kumbulla is good enough to challenge for a starting berth at Everton which will increase competition for places within Ancelotti’s squad.
