Everton can't ignore golden Daichi Kamada opportunity as stats emerge in Japan draw vs Netherlands

Everton are reportedly looking to sign a new central midfielder this summer, with Daichi Kamada among the very best options available.

The 29-year-old's contract with Crystal Palace is expiring this summer and he has refused all attempts to extend it, with any club able to sign him at the end of the month.

The midfielder was key to the Eagles' Conference League victory, and he was superb as Japan drew 2-2 with the Netherlands in their World Cup opee

Kamada represents a monumental opportunity, and one that several clubs will quickly jump on as long as he continues to prove himself on the grandest stage.

The Japan international scored a late equaliser for his nation on Sunday, after Virgil van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville had scored to cancel out Keito Nakamura's goal.

It is widely accepted that Kamada will go where Oliver Glasner does this summer, but it is looking increasingly likely that the Austrian will be without a club.

Daichi Kamada's stats prove why Everton must sign him

Glasner and Kamada first met at Frankfurt, and the midfielder followed him to Crystal Palace in 2024.

But after the Austrian manager left Frankfurt in 2023 and was out of a job for eight months, Kamada signed a one-year deal with Lazio. That is what Everton transfer chiefs should be aware of.

With jobs no longer available in the Premier League, and both AC Milan and Bayer Leverkusen close to appointing different managers, it appears more and more likely that Glasner will have to wait for his next job.

That could mean Kamada is available this summer, and his stats on Sunday prove why that is such a big deal for Everton.

The 29-year-old did not know much about his goal - Koki Ogawa's header merely hitting him on the way in - instead, it was his all-round performance which drew eyes.

The midfielder created a chance, completed a successful dribble and three long balls, and made 11 passes into the final third.

Defensively, Kamada was sound. He made three tackles, an interception and four recoveries, winning four of the duels he contested. It was an all-round performance that sums up exactly what he is all about.

Everton's midfielder depth analysed

Everton are yet to come to an agreement with Idrissa Gana Gueye over a new contract.

The midfielder made 25 Premier League appearances this season but will leave on a free transfer if no extension is signed.

James Garner on the other hand, will be a key part of the midfield going forward, and the same can be said of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

For Merlin Rohl, Tim Iroegbunam, Carlos Alcaraz and Harrison Armstrong, the future is more uncertain. Rotation roles are likely in store for all four next season, with a move away this summer far from ruled out.

Even if Kamada stays for just one year, it would seem a no brainer to pursue the midfielder.