Everton are ready to face off against West Ham in the battle for Galatasaray defender Christian Luyindama’s signature, according to Takvim, and the defender could prove to be a snip in the summer market.
Both Everton and West Ham are believed to be looking to bolster their respective backlines this summer, with Everton in particular needing reinforcements, having just three senior centre-backs available.
According to Turkish outlet Takvim, the Premier League duo have now got their sights set on Luyindama, with the Hammers ready to pay £14million to land the 26-year old.
However, the Toffees are said to be keen on opposing the London club, and could look to match their offer for the DR Congo international.
While Luyindama doesn’t have much experience playing at an elite level, with his domestic career having been played exclusively in Congo, Belgium and Turkey, the 6ft 3in centre-back could be a cheap alternative to costly stars.
We feel as if the Toffees have many needs this summer, with numerous positions in need of strengthening and reinforcing, and the club could benefit from spending less on a centre-back who might not necessarily be guaranteed a starting spot.
However, with more interceptions per game (1.2) and more clearances per game (3.8) than both of Everton’s current starting pair Mason Holgate and Yerry Mina, Luyindama could also prove to be someone who could add immediate competition.
Should Carlo Ancelotti and Marcel Brands deem him to be the man who can bolster Everton’s defensive unit, then hopefully the club press ahead in their pursuit.
