Everton are being linked with a move for Lille midfielder Thiago Mendes as a possible replacement for Idrissa Gueye, who could possibly depart this summer for Paris Saint-Germain.
According to journalist Duncan Castles, cited by the Daily Star, Everton are exploring the possibility of bringing the Brazilian to Goodison Park in the coming months if Gueye decides to move on this summer.
If Gueye does indeed depart the club, a replacement is desperately needed, and on paper, a move for Mendes looks to be a like-for-like replacement.
The 27-year-old has played a part in Lille’s impressive Ligue 1 campaign this season, standing out in midfield with his energy, along with his passing and tackling capabilities, similar to Gueye’s campaign with Everton.
Mendes, who is two years younger than Gueye, could be available for around €30m, a fee the Toffees may well have to pay for a high-quality replacement for the consistent Gueye.
The defensive-minded midfielder would bring a bundle of energy and discipline to Marco Silva’s midfield, something the team need if Gueye completes a move to Paris Saint-Germain.
If Everton are serious about breaking into Europe once more under Silva, a move for Mendes could prove to be a shrewd piece of business, and Toffees fans may not even miss Gueye in the heart of the midfield if Mendes takes to the Premier League just as he has done in Ligue 1.
