- 18 hours ago
Onana replacement? Everton eye forgotten Liverpool flop
Tom Weber
- Updated: 15 Jun 2024 16:40 BST
- 3 min read
Everton are interested in signing Arthur Melo, according to Italian media.
The Brazilian midfielder managed to revive his career on loan at Fiorentina in the bygone season, helping La Viola reach the final of the UEFA Conference League.
Despite playing a decent campaign, Arthur has returned to parent club Juventus, who are looking to offload him this summer. The Bianconeri have ambitious transfer plans and are keen to provide new coach Thiago Motta with big-name stars and for this, funds are needed.
A former Barcelona player, Arthur's career had been going downhill dramatically prior to his temporary stay in Florence, with the midfielder having spent the previous season on loan at Liverpool.
READ MORE: Who is Nuri Sahin? The Liverpool flop turned Dortmund coaching prodigy
On Merseyside, the 27-year-old racked up just 13 minutes of competitive football and eventually returned to Italy after an injury-hit season. This summer, however, he could make a surprise return to that neck of the woods.
Current ETV
Arthur Melo
DM (CRL)
Fiorentina
Arthur Melo
DM (CRL)
Fiorentina
ETV Range
€9.1M - €15.2M
Everton keen
That is because Sky Italia reports that Everton have registered their interest in the 22-time Brazil international. In fact, it is even asserted that the Toffees are currently leading the charge for his signature, though Juve coach Motta has yet to sit down with Arthur to discuss his plans.
The interest in Melo is likely linked to Amadou Onana's uncertain future. The Belgium star has made no secret of his desire to use Euro 2024 as an opportunity to put himself in the shop window for big clubs, with recent reports once again linking Arsenal with a move.
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Cash-strapped Everton, who are still in takeover limbo, could look to Arthur as an affordable replacement if Onana leaves. Indeed, though the Belgian would fetch a hefty sum, he would likely be the only high-profile sale, with Everton desperate to keep a hold of Man Utd target Jarrad Branthwaite, so Sean Dyche and company will need to be smart with their money.
