Everton could now sign Georginio Wijnaldum as transfer decision made – pundit
Noel Whelan has backed Everton to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum this summer.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 31-year-old could be a “fantastic” addition if a move for England international Harry Winks doesn’t materialise.
90min (24 June) claim that the Toffees are plotting a move for Wijnaldum – with PSG ready to sell the former Liverpool man after just one year in the French capital.
According to Sky Sports journalist Michael Bridge (25 June), Tottenham and Everton are still in talks over a deal for long-term target Winks – who is not in the plans of Antonio Conte.
The two clubs are yet to reach an agreement on how the deal will be structured – with the Merseyside club preferring a loan move.
When asked if Wijnaldum could be a good alternative to Winks this summer, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “There’s absolutely no doubt about it.
“He’s still a fantastic player. I really enjoyed watching him at Liverpool, and of course, it could be a bit of a controversial move if he ends up at Everton.
“It always works out that way. We saw that with Benitez, and you could get a similar reaction.
“But look, sometimes when there is a player with that quality and ability, with the potential to be influential in that midfield area – you have to overlook that.
“I’d like to see him back in the Premier League, there’s no doubt about it. I’d like to have seen him go back to Newcastle.
“We’ll have to see how this one materialises. I’m sure there’s a lot to think about, but the location will work for Everton.
“He probably still has a home in the area and it won’t take too much settling back in after a season in France.”
In other news, Kieran Maguire claims Everton are at risk of becoming the new Sunderland after takeover latest.