Everton enter bidding war for Belgian starlet

Marouane Fellaini. Kevin Mirallas. Romelu Lukaku. David Henen (maybe?). Everton have an excellent recent history of acquiring good Belgian players, and reports from the area have the Blues ready to dip their toes back into those same waters.

19 year old midfielder Youri Tielemans has been the subject of transfer rumors for several years now, with sides all across Europe hoping to pry the youngster away from Anderlecht, the only team he’s ever known.

Thus far, the Belgian club have resisted the temptation to cash in on the deep-lying playmaker, but that’s unlikely to continue, as Monaco are said to have readied a strong bid. The French side are enjoying one of their all-time best seasons, have a strong history of developing young players, and possess the cash to make a deal happen.

However, there could yet be a twist in the tale - Everton are reported to be entering the race.

Represented by Christophe Henrotay, one of Belgium’s most powerful agents, Tielemans’ ability on the pitch appears to have convinced Bill Kenwright to send a €25m offer to Anderlecht to acquire his services.

Kenwright is known to be close to the agent, having used his services in the past to acquire players such as Kevin Mirallas and Marouane Fellaini, who was once represented by Henrotay’s father.

Tielemans, still only 19, is renowned for his passing ability and sense of the game at such a young age. Indeed, Anderlecht have given him the role of vice captain already, and he’s handled it with poise.

It’s hard to say no to such a precocious and talented young player, but the on field fit with Everton would be something that needs working out. The Blues are loaded with competent central midfielders, and that’s without considering youth players or the return of Muhamed Besic.

Morgan Schneiderlin seems to have the deep lying playmaker position on lockdown long-term, and we know Tom Davies isn’t going anywhere. Where would Tielemans play? Should Ronald Koeman try to make room for such a talented player, or should Everton focus their transfer funds elsewhere this summer?