In a recent tweet, renowned journalist Rudy Galetti stated that Everton are in advanced talks to land Royal Antwerp full-back Aurelio Buta this summer. It has been mentioned that the Toffees are discussing a deal worth around €4m for the Portuguese defender during this summer transfer window.
🚨📞 Advanced talks between #Everton and #Antwerp for Aurelio #Buta. The offer for the 🇵🇹 right-back (around €4M) is under discussion. Evolving situation. 🐓⚽️ #Calciomercato #Transfers #EPL
— Rudy Galetti (@RudyGaletti) August 14, 2021
Buta’s Impressive Form In Belgian Football
The 24-year-old has made a positive start to this campaign as he has already picked up three assists in four appearances for the Belgian outfit so far. Buta also enjoyed a decent run of form in Belgian football last season when he participated in 34 matches for Royal Antwerp, securing five assists and seven yellow cards in all competitions.
The Portuguese talent was inconsistent at times but did well to average 1.2 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, 0.6 clearances, 0.8 key passes and 0.5 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Belgian top-flight. He even distributed the ball with conviction after making 80.9% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Buta has taken great strides towards improving himself over the past 12 months, so the Toffees should think about orchestrating a move to bring him to Goodison Park this summer. He has what it takes to be a long-term successor to Séamus Coleman, who is entering the twilight years of his playing career at the Merseyside club.
What Will Buta Add To Rafael Benitez’s Team?
Buta is one of the quickest players in European football and can often turn on the afterburners when making runs down the right flank. The Portuguese defender has got a great work rate and can win some 50-50 aerials duels for his side as he has a great leap in him. He is primarily a right-back but can also fill in as a right-sided wide player if required.
At 24, the best is yet to come from Buta as he could grow into a world-class player in his position someday. Therefore, Everton would be wise to get a deal done for him before the transfer deadline as he will add a lot of quality to Rafael Benitez’s backline.
Buta is already good enough to rival Seamus Coleman for a place in the Toffees’ starting XI this season. He could give the Merseyside club more width out on the flanks which makes him a good option for Benitez to pursue this summer. Furthermore, the Everton manager has got the experience to get the best out of the Royal Antwerp star in the coming seasons.
