If a report from Brazilian outlet Torcedores is believed to be true, Everton are keeping close tabs on Atlético Mineiro fullback Guilherme Arana ahead of a potential summer move. The youngster is currently representing the Selecao in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics and the Toffees have sent an observer, Jamie Hoyland, to analyze his performance extensively.
Brazil, meanwhile, are favourites for the Olympic gold and the 24-year-old Corinthians prodigy is making his presence known from the left-hand flank. He has not only impressed with his marauding runs, cut insides, crosses and attacking contribution, but also maintained discipline and composure while tracking back and performing his defensive duties.
Born in São Paulo, Arana made significant strides while progressing through the youth ranks of Time do Povo. A promising spell earned him a €12m transfer to Sevilla back in January 2018. However, he struggled for minutes in La Liga and was eventually roped in by Atalanta a couple of summers ago. But it did not work out either as he returned to his homeland and joined Atlético Mineiro on an initial 18-month loan (with obligatory purchase clause).
Why Everton Should Focus On Other Priorities Despite Interest In Guilherme Arana
Galo, meanwhile, have made the deal permanent for €2.5m and would only let him leave for a fee in the region of €40m following his emergence in the Olympics. Everton have monitored his progress over the years but must break the bank to secure his services during the summer window. Arana is contracted at Mineirão until December 2024 and should concentrate on flourishing his skills with ample first-team opportunities over a sporadic role.
Rafael Benitez must snap up a right-back first to succeed Seamus Coleman. The 32-year-old Irishman has suffered injury woes in recent months and the likes of Jonjoe Kenny and Mason Holgate have not done enough to secure a starting status. The latter should only be viewed as a makeshift option and the gaffer, therefore, needs to dig deep in the market to resolve this defensive conundrum.
The Merseysiders are well equipped on the opposite flank with Lucas Digne being one of the most impressive Premier League left-backs over the past couple of campaigns. They wrapped up 20-year-old Niels Nkounkou last summer from Marseille to challenge and cover the French international and the signing of Arana would arguably be an unnecessary one considering their crisis down the right-hand side. The player, however, should target a return to Europe at some point in his career and finish the unfinished business of his first European venture.
