According to El Gol Digital, Everton are interested in securing the services of Atletico Madrid star Santiago Arias. The Colombian international is held in high esteem by Everton’s sporting director Marcel Brands, and the Toffees are willing to offer up to €40 million for his services.
Atletico are experiencing a mass exodus this summer, with the likes of Antoine Griezmann, Juanfran, Filipe Luis and Diego Godin all set to leave the club. And Arias could well be the next player to follow their footsteps after a mediocre debut campaign in Spain.
Arias’ struggles at Atletico Madrid
Arias arrived at Wanda Metropolitano from PSV Eindhoven for a fee of €11 million last summer. The 27-year-old notably starred for Colombia in the 2018 World Cup and looked like an excellent replacement for the ageing Juanfran.
However, Arias struggled with lack of game-time under Diego Simeone. Although his performances weren’t exactly bad, the Colombian was not included in the team sheet for few matches, including the last three games of the season. Also, injuries played its part in minimising his overall game-time at Atletico.
Arias ended the campaign having played only 1,770 minutes of league football, during which he was involved in only two goals.
What can Arias bring to the table?
Arias is known for his hard-working mentality and willingness to win back possession for his team. Indeed, the 27-year-old is an industrious fullback who is also good at reading the game. He notably averaged 1.4 interceptions per game while making 1.9 successful tackles.
The ex-PSV defender is blessed with technical quality as well. He is a good passer of the ball and can provide extensive attacking support from the flank if needed.
Should Everton make a move for Arias?
Arias’ defensive work-rate and fighting spirit could be an ideal fit for Marco Silva’s tactical philosophy at Everton. But, spending €40 million on a defender may not be the most prudent decision from the Portuguese mastermind, especially when he needs to address his side’s problems in central midfield and attack.
Besides, it’s unlikely Arias will be willing to sacrifice regular Champions League football to join Everton. And with Juanfran leaving the club this summer, the Colombian international will have the opportunity of emerging as a first-choice at Atleti – giving him all the more reasons to stay put in Spain.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
