Digne ‘one of many’ Everton stars heading for exit after Romano update – pundit
Everton manager Rafael Benitez has “made up his mind” on Lucas Digne and could sell him as soon as January.
That is the view of former Tottenham and England number one Paul Robinson, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the Blues’ move for Dynamo Kiev defender Vitaliy Mykolenko.
According to Fabrizio Romano (17 December), Everton are closing in on a £17.9million deal for Mykolenko, 22.
The left-back is said to have agreed terms on a five-year contract at Goodison Park.
Robinson is adamant the signings spells the end of Digne given Everton’s current position in regards to Financial Fair Play.
“It would suggest that Benitez has made up his mind on Digne,” he told Football Insider.
“If Everton are going to spend anything like £20million they would have to sell a player or two first. They are so close to the FFP. If they can get £20million for Digne then a £20million move for Mykolenko makes sense.
“Benitez will want to shuffle his pack. If he is bringing in this left-back, who is relatively unknown, then he has clearly made his mind up on Digne. I think Digne’s one of many players he’s made his mind up, to be honest.
“Benitez has had his critics, myself included but he is a top manager. He will have a clear idea of who he wants in his dressing room.”
Analysis from Football Insider finance expert Kieran Maguire has revealed how the Toffees are £35million behind their FFP target.
Rafael Benitez will have to generate funds from player sales if he wants to make significant changes to his squad.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has claimed Everton could be in ‘breach of contract’ amid £300m ruling body reveal.