Everton transfer target Anthony Elanga is ‘appreciated’ by the club’s hierarchy, reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano has informed GiveMeSport.
The 20-year-old has struggled for game time at Manchester United this season following the arrival of Erik ten Hag and could make the switch to Goodison Park this January as a result.
Everton transfer news – Elanga
Back in December, The Athletic revealed that due to financial restraints, Everton are paying particular attention to the loan market for this winter transfer window.
It’s claimed that Elanga is one of the options currently being assessed by the Toffees as they look to bolster Frank Lampard’s attacking options following an underwhelming first half of the season.
The Sweden international has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford in 2022/23, with the likes of Marcus Rashford, Antony, Anthony Martial and even teenager Alejandro Garnacho favoured above him.
A temporary switch away from United may be the best option for Elanga’s development, therefore, and Everton could be the side that benefits from his current situation.
What has Romano said about Elanga?
United are set to welcome Burnley striker Wout Weghorst to the club on a six-month loan deal, replacing the departed Cristiano Ronaldo.
Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know
Weghorst’s arrival could reduce Elanga’s opportunities even further, though, and Romano has told GMS that Ten Hag must now ‘decide’ what he wants to do with the youngster.
He said: “They have to decide what they want to do with Elanga, he was one of the players appreciated by Everton. Also, Facundo Pellestri did very well in the last game.”
Would Elanga be a good signing?
Elanga enjoyed a fairly productive breakout season for United last term, registering three goals and two assists in 27 appearances across all competitions, leading to compatriot Zlatan Ibrahimovic labelling him a "great talent".
However, the versatile attacker has only started six league and cup games for the Old Trafford outfit since Ten Hag arrived in the summer and has only managed to produce a single assist in his 18 outings.
Elanga’s ability to play on either flank, as well as upfront, may be particularly appealing to Lampard, though, while his low wages are likely to be enticing to Everton chiefs.
Nevertheless, relying on Elanga, who is valued at £35m by CIES, to fire Everton up the table and away from the relegation zone would surely be a significant risk given his unproven ability at the highest level.