In a recent tweet, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Everton are set to be rivalled by Fulham in pursuit of Barcelona defender Jean-Clair Todibo during this transfer period. It is understood that the Toffees have made a loan offer with an option to buy but are yet to reach an agreement with the Catalans.
Todibo’s Lack Of First-Team Action In Spanish Football
The Cayenne-born talent struggled to earn regular first-team football at the Nou Camp last season. Hence, he went out to play for Schalke on a six-month loan back in January. Todibo appeared in ten matches for the German outfit in the previous campaign, picking up two yellow cards across all competitions.
The 20-year-old should be praised for finding a run of consistency during his time at Gelsenkirchen as he averaged 1.9 tackles, 1.9 interceptions, 2.6 clearances and 1.4 dribbles per match in the 2019-20 Bundesliga season. He even managed to distribute possession relatively well after making 84.8% of his attempted passes in the top tier of German football (stats via whoscored).
Todibo is not in contention to secure a regular starting berth under Ronald Koeman’s stewardship this season. Hence, the French whizkid needs to seek a move away from Catalonia in search of greener pastures before next month’s transfer deadline. The Barca youngster can benefit from making a fresh start, so he should consider sealing a move to Goodison Park even if it is on a loan deal this summer.
What Will The French Starlet Bring To The Table?
If Todibo can build up some confidence by playing regularly, then he could potentially serve as a reliable defensive presence inside his half. During his loan spell with Schalke last season, the French prospect proved his worth as a capable tackler and has made a habit of earning possession back for his side. Standing at 1.90m, he has got the strength to outmuscle the opposition in the air and win a lot of aerial duels in and around his penalty box.
Is Todibo The Right Choice For The Toffees?
Todibo’s incredible strength, coupled with his hunger to succeed, make him an ideal choice for Carlo Ancelotti to consider over the coming weeks. He will undeniably add more depth to the Italian tactician’s squad this season if Everton can get a deal over the line for him before the transfer window slams shut in October.
The French centre-half will add some serious competition for the likes of Michael Keane, Yerry Mina and Mason Holgate at Goodison Park during this campaign. All in all, the Toffees should try their best to bring Todibo to Merseyside as he could help them compete for a silverware this season.
