According to a recent report by Le10Sport, both Everton and Arsenal are keeping a keen eye on Celtic centre-forward Odsonne Edouard ahead of a potential move in the summer. However, the Daily Express has now revealed that the Gunners are leading the chase to sign the French striker in this off-season, but the Toffees remain in the race as they look to bolster their attacking options during the summer transfer window.
Edouard’s Remarkable Spell At Celtic Park
Edouard has been Celtic’s shining star this season after he put in numerous match-winning performances as the focal point of Neil Lennon’s attack so far. The 22-year-old has registered 27 goals and 19 assists in 45 matches for the Glaswegian giants this term in all competitions which goes to highlight his growing influence at Celtic Park.
The Kourou-born talent has also played an instrumental role for the Hoops in Europe during this campaign as evidenced by his average of 3.3 shots, 1.3 key passes and 1.5 dribbles per game in the UEFA Europa League (stats via whoscored). However, there are still some question marks over whether he will be able to maintain such high standards in the Premier League which is known for his competitiveness and high intensity.
Edouard has also represented France at various youth levels but is still waiting to earn his first senior call-up from Didier Deschamps. Maybe a summer switch to England could give him the platform to showcase his skills and catch the attention of the France manager ahead of the UEFA European Championship which will now kick-off at the end of next season because of the recent COVID-19 pandemic.
What Are The French Striker’s Best Attributes?
Edouard boasts a terrific burst of pace that allows him to dribble past his marker and get in behind the opposition backline. He can put himself in some dangerous positions in the final third which makes him such a menacing presence for the opposition defenders. The French youngster has transformed himself into a prolific goal-getter and assist-maker at Parkhead but whether he can replicate such form in England, remains to be seen. Edouard can also use his strength to shield the ball and retain possession when left isolated up top.
Should The Toffees Step Up Their Efforts To Land Edouard This Summer?
Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti is in dire need of a consistent goal-scorer if he wants his side to compete for major trophies in the coming seasons. So Edouard fits the bill perfectly as he will add a lot of goals and creativity to the Toffees frontline. Furthermore, the Merseyside club has often played Richarlison out of position as a forward this season even though he is primarily a winger. Hence, recruiting a prolific forward like Edouard will allow Ancelotti to play the Brazilian out on the left flank which might enhance his side’s chances of scoring more regularly in the English top-flight next season.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has shown some significant improvement signs at Goodison Park so far and has flourished alongside Richarlison up top. Ancelotti needs to push him by adding more competition so that the English prospect can develop into a world-class centre-forward at Merseyside someday. Edouard ticks all the right boxes in terms of what Everton are looking for heading into this summer window. Therefore, Ancelotti should consider stepping up his efforts and provide Arsenal with some serious competition in pursuit of the French speedster this summer.
