It’s shaping up to be a massive summer in the Premier League. The midfield market has already erupted into life, with some record deals on the table, and the attacking market could be about to follow suit.
Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Fulham and Everton have all set their sights on El Bilal Toure. Newcastle, of course, are attempting to revive Eddie Howe’s side after losing Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali in the space of 12 months.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, are seeking additions ahead of their Champions League return and in the event of a record departure for Morgan Rogers. It’s less of a frantic case for Everton and Fulham, as the Toffees look to back David Moyes and the West London club eye Alvaro Arbeloa’s first signing.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Toure has entered the radar of several Premier League sides after an excellent loan spell at Besiktas and now needs a permanent move that England could provide. He’ll even come at a bargain price. |
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Finances |
Reports are now suggesting that Atalanta could sell their winger for just €18m (£15m) this summer. That would be well within the reach of all four Premier League sides that are interested. |
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Insight |
It’s easy to write off the 24-year-old after two loan spells. Atalanta certainly have. But it’s key to point out that, for £15m, clubs can land a winger that recorded 12 goal involvements last season. |
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Impact |
The biggest winners in the race for Toure’s signature would be Aston Villa. They need better depth ahead of their Champions League return and the Atalanta man would provide that and potentially replace Rogers’ quality if needed. |
Premier League sides have plenty to consider in pursuit of Toure. In the summer of outrageous transfer fees, though, he’d be an undeniable bargain.
Race leader emerges as Premier League sides battle begins
According to Africa Foot, as relayed by Sport Witness, Fulham are leading the race to sign Toure ahead of Aston Villa, Newcastle and Everton this summer.
All four clubs are chasing a bargain deal, with Atalanta willing to accept just €18m (£15m) for their winger, who impressed on loan at Besiktas last season.
Whether that means an offer is on the way from Craven Cottage remains to be seen. If that is the case, then Villa would be wise to match that offer.
Why Aston Villa should battle Fulham to sign Toure
Aston Villa learned the hard way last time out that squad depth is the key to any success when balancing domestic and Champions League football. It’s not a mistake that they will want to make again. Even if they are still somewhat limited by SCR rules, a deal for Toure is the perfect opportunity.
The winger would be within their reach financially and could act as the perfect depth option out wide for Emery. If Rogers does also depart, then Unai Emery will need all the creative players that he can get. Toure, again, ticks that box.
