Everton could sign ‘something different’ after Rondon update from Times – Whelan

Noel Whelan has claimed Salomon Rondon would offer Everton something different to Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Leeds United forward suggested the 31-year-old would be a smart signing given his existing relationship with Rafael Benitez.

According to The Times (August 30th), the Blues are trying to finalise a deal for the Venezuelan striker before the transfer window shuts.

Rondon worked with Benitez at his current club Dalian Professional as well as Newcastle United.

His contract in China expires at the end of December next year.

When asked by Football Insider assistant editor Dylan Childs for his thoughts on the potential arrival of Rondon, Whelan said:

“Rondon gives you something different to Dominic Calvert-Lewin, that’s for sure. I see him as a more aggressive, hold-up player than Calvert-Lewin.

“When managers go to new clubs they tend to buy players who they’ve worked with and know they can trust. Rondon certainly fits that bill for Benitez.

“On his day he is an absolute handful even if he is not the most consistent goalscorer out there.

“Look, Everton do not have 1million and one options when it comes to centre-forward. Richarlison can play there but he is more effective coming from out wide.

“Let’s be honest, you can never have enough firepower in your squad so I would be very interested to see how he does if he goes there.”

Alan Shearer heaped praise on Rondon after he was crowned Newcastle’s Player of the Year at the end of the 2019-19 campaign.

His 32 appearances for the Magpies that year yielded an impressive 11 goals and seven assists.

In other news, pundit makes bold claim about Maitland-Niles after Everton bid update from David Ornstein.