Everton have been linked with a move for Franck Kessie by Calciomercato (h/t Sport Witness), but it’s hard to see the Toffees bringing in another midfielder if Andre Gomes is confirmed. There’s a chance Marco Silva is lining up a direct replacement for Idrissa Gueye amid linked with Paris Saint-Germain, but Kessie may not be on their shortlist.
That’s not to say the £38k-per-week AC Milan midfielder wouldn’t improve the squad. He made 34 Serie A appearances last season, scoring and creating nine goals, making 43 chances, boasting 45 successful dribbles (70%), winning 40 aerial duels (51%), averaging a tackle (45) or interception (27) every 42 minutes, making 50 clearances and blocking 38 shots/passes/crosses.
Everton’s alleged interest in Kessie has been fleeting, however, which may be down to the 22-year-old’s temperament – 48 fouls and eight yellow cards in Serie A last season. He was also embroiled in an altercation with teammate Lucas Biglia and was investigated over waving Lazio defender Francesco Acerbi’s shirt after a match.
That may be why Milan are willing to sell Kessie. Why else would they want to lose an important midfielder from the squad? Whether Everton do make a move remains to be seen, but it’s hard to see them paying £31.3m to sign him.