Anderlecht ace wants Everton move…but will Toffees pay the fee?

It’s a case of ‘will they, won’t they’ with Everton and Youri Tielemans of Anderlecht right now. The Belgian prodigy has hinted at his interest in a move to Merseyside, the Toffees are keen, but Paars-wit are holding out for big money. So, will it happen?

There’s certainly no doubt the 19-year-old would be a good addition for Ronald Koeman’s side.

He’s netted an incredible 17 goals in 38 games from central midfield for the Brussels club this season, helping them challenge for the Belgian Pro League title – as well as reaching the last 16 of the Europa League.

However, while the teenager’s strike rate has been sensational, it’s his creativity which remains his most valuable asset. Ten assists and counting this term reflect the lively and skilful youngster’s exquisite range of passing.

And Koeman will likely have been encouraged by the player’s response when recently asked about the possibility of a move to Everton on Belgian radio, saying: “It’s what’s best to progress step by step…it’s good to not burn steps and to avoid ending up on the bench and not getting game time.”

Having previously been linked with the likes of Atletico Madrid and Arsenal, it seems that the likelihood of regular first-team action at Goodison Park would make it the number one destination for Tielemans.

Anderlecht have made it clear today that he’ll cost “a lot more” than £15m, but having spent a total of £73m on players since summer 2016, chances are Everton will be willing to stump up the cash.

Especially so when you consider the dearth of options the Blues have right now. Darron Gibson and Tom Cleverley have both been offloaded, leaving only Tom Davies at Goodison right now – and despite all his potential – he looks far less like the finished article than fellow teenager Tielemans.

Next up for Everton is a trip to White Hart Lane on Sunday, with 9/2 for the visitors to enjoy a first victory in N17 since November 2008.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing