According to a recent report by Gazzetta Di Parma, Everton are showing strong interest in acquiring the services of Cengiz Under from AS Roma, but it is unclear whether the player will fancy a move to Goodison Park. The same source has also stated that the Turkish playmaker is facing an uncertain future at the Stadio Olimpico and could be on his way out of the club at the end of this current campaign.
Under’s Fall From Grace In The Italian Top-Flight This Season
The 22-year-old has endured a frustrating season in the Serie A after failing to hit the heights of his performances from the previous campaign. He has made 20 appearances for Roma this term, scoring three goals across all competitions. Under’s inability to finish off chances has reflected on his stats this season.
The Turkish prospect has averaged 1.7 shots, 1.6 key passes and 1.9 dribbles per game in the Italian first division this season which goes to show that at least he is doing all the right things in the final third (stats via whoscored). However, his decision-making in critical moments has often let him down in the recent past.
Under has also missed several matches this season due to a muscle injury. The ex-Altinordu FK youngster has also earned 20 senior caps for the Turkish national team, netting six goals in the process. He is expected to play a vital role for his country in the UEFA European Championship which is now scheduled to take place in the summer of 2021 due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic.
What Will The Turkish International Add To Ancelotti’s Team?
Under can use his quickness and trickery to get behind the opposition defence but has been a bit indecisive in the attacking third of the pitch this season. He has excellent ball-control and tends to deliver some inviting crosses into the opposition penalty box. The Turkish starlet also packs a lot of power with his shots from longe range but needs to be more lethal in front of goal if he wants to break into the world-class bracket someday.
Despite Under’s recent injury struggles, Carlo Ancelotti would be wise to strengthen his attacking options by bringing in a player of his quality and potential in the off-season. He will not only add more pace and guile to the Everton attack but will also increase competition for places within the Toffees squad.
Theo Walcott is the only natural winger who can play down the right side of Ancelotti’s midfield. Both Richarlison and Bernard have also been used in that position but to no great effect. Another option for the Everton boss has been to play Djibril Sidibe in a more advanced role on the right flank. However, the French defender is better off playing in his natural right-back position. Therefore, Everton need a wide player of Under’s skillset this summer. All in all, he could turn out to be a smart acquisition if the Merseyside outfit can get a deal over the line before the start of the new campaign.
