According to a recent report by the Turkish news outlet Milliyet, Everton will battle it out with Wolverhampton Wanderers for the right to secure the services of Christian Luyindama from Galatasaray this summer. The same source has also mentioned that the Turkish giants have no intention to part ways with their prized asset in the off-season but could evaluate any bids they receive over €15m for the player.
Luyindama’s Injury-Ridden Campaign At Istanbul This Season
Since sealing a move to the Türk Telekom Stadium from Standard Liege last summer, Luyindama has fallen victim to a cruciate ligament rupture which has kept him out several matches in the Turkish Super Lig this season. He has been involved in 15 games for Fatih Terim’s team this term, receiving a total of 1336 minutes of game time across all competitions.
To his credit, the Congolese defensive ace has averaged 2.0 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 3.9 clearances per game in the Turkish top-flight and the UEFA Champions League this season (stats via whoscored). When he is playing well on the field, Luyindama has shown time and time again that he can be a commanding presence at the centre of the defence. However, there is still some uncertainty surrounding his recent injury record, which makes him a risk for any of his potential suitors.
The 26-year-old has also represented the Democratic Republic of Congo in seven international fixtures thus far. He is expected to be a valuable asset for his country when the African Cup of Nations kicks off next year. Maybe a summer switch to the Premier League could be a perfect opportunity for him to reignite his career as it would give him the platform to test himself against some of the best players in world football.
What Are The Congolese Centre-Back’s Best Attributes?
Luyindama has the pace and the power to dominate his own penalty area with authority and conviction. He wins his fair share of aerial duels by using his incredible upper body strength to outmuscle the opposition in the air. The Congolese centre-back can also mop up the danger by making some crucial interceptions at the back. He has also made a habit of making a few important last-ditch clearances for his side which made him such a favourite among fans at Standard Liege last season.
Will Recruiting Luyindama Be A Wise Move For The Merseysiders?
However, there are still some question marks over whether he will be able to cope with the high intensity of Premier League football if he decides to make the switch to Goodison Park before the start of the new campaign. It is no secret that Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti needs to bring in some defensive reinforcements so that his side can challenge for major silverware in the coming seasons.
The Toffees can benefit from taking a gamble on Luyindama as he will be a low-risk acquisition despite his poor record with injuries of late. He will provide some healthy competition for the likes of Yerry Mina, Mason Holgate and Michael Keane in the race to secure a regular starting berth at the heart of Ancelotti’s backline next season. The Congolese international will also add some much-needed bite and steel to the Everton defence that has been guilty of conceding some cheap goals at Merseyside this season.
All in all, Ancelotti would be wise to secure the signature of Luyindama this summer as it will give him the freedom to tinker with his formations, tactics and team selections more often in the future.
