Everton reportedly scouted Donny van de Beek last season, but should they firm up their interest and make a bid for the Ajax star?
Marcel van der Kraan spoke to Sky Sports’ Transfer Talk podcast and confirmed that the Toffees had watched the Dutchman in action on numerous occasions throughout the 2018/19 campaign.
The De Telegraaf reporter said:
I have seen scouts from Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, Everton, Liverpool and Newcastle watching him a number of times.
He is an ideal player for the Premier League, he has the skills, like most Ajax players, and a big tank so he can run all day. But all these clubs have a priority list and Van de Beek seems the perfect backup for the big clubs.
I think he is keen on the Premier League, more than the Bundesliga or Serie A.
Van de Beek is a man in demand this summer, and Everton would likely face stiff competition if they were to pursue a deal. However, on paper, he appears to be an ideal signing for Marco Silva’s side.
The promising midfielder was excellent for Ajax last season but hardly received fair appraisal for his efforts. While the likes of Matthijs de Ligt, Frenkie de Jong and Dusan Tadic were rightfully coveted, Van de Beek was a lesser-spoken about but equally important cog in Erik ten Hag’s well-oiled machine.
He managed to find the back of the net on 17 occasions for the Eredivisie champions in all competitions while also displaying his creative side, setting up 13 goals for his teammates.
Van de Beek moved from box to box and turned in numerous efficient displays in the Ajax midfield, helping his partner De Jong to flourish and orchestrate play. He was effervescent and energetic throughout, winning balls in midfield and initiating moves.
Everton look likely to require a new midfielder this summer, even if they do manage to tie up Andre Gomes on a permanent deal from Barcelona following his impressive loan spell at Goodison Park.
Idrissa Gueye’s future remains uncertain, and both he and Morgan Schneiderlin are approaching their thirties. A new long-term successor – and upgrade, also – is necessary, and Van de Beek fits the bill.
His ability to retain the ball and dictate the tempo of matches ties in with Silva’s demands of his midfield players and while it would take a sizable sum to lure the Netherlands international away from the Johan Cruijff Arena, it would be money well spent.
If there is even the slightest chance that Everton can recruit Van de Beek this summer, they must not pass up the opportunity.
