According to a recent report by Tuttomercatoweb, Everton are plotting a move to secure the signature of Inter Milan midfielder Joao Mario during the summer transfer period. However, the same source has also mentioned that the Toffees will face stiff competition from AS Monaco in pursuit of the Portuguese international, who is being valued at €16m by Inter in this offseason.
Mario’s Struggles In The Italian Top-Flight
The 26-year-old had to endure a mediocre campaign with the Italian outfit as he has often been inconsistent with his performances on the pitch during this campaign. Mario has made 22 appearances for the Serie A giants this term, scoring one goal while grabbing three assists across all competitions.
His productivity at the San Siro has been underwhelming so far. Maybe a change in scenery could help the Portuguese talent reignite his career in European football. Everton boss Marco Silva has shown in the past that he can get the best out of underperforming talents as evidenced by Andre Gomes’ impressive loan spell at Goodison Park this season.
Mario has also earned 43 international caps for the Portuguese national side and has two goals to his name for his nation.
What Does The Portuguese Midfielder Offer On The Pitch?
Mario is a very penetrative dribbler with the ball and can complete some lung-bursting dribbles from midfield. He is also an accurate passer of the ball and has the vision to open up the most rigid of defences in the opposition half. However, the Portuguese sensation needs to add more goals and assists to his game if he wants to prove his worth at the highest level.
The potential acquisition of Mario will undoubtedly bolster Silva’s midfield options at Goodison Park. He will not only add more creativity to the Everton midfield but will also provide healthy competition for Idrissa Gueye, Andre Gomes and Tom Davies in the upcoming season.
Mario’s Addition: Good Move For Silva?
However, there are still some significant question marks over whether Mario is good enough to feature in the Premier League regularly. Even though he had previously experienced football in England during his loan spell at West Ham United last season, the fact remains that his performances for Inter this season has been frustrating thus far. Hence, it might not be wise for Everton to recruit him ahead of the new campaign.
