Everton are reportedly interested in Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge, although the Toffees may have to tussle with Arsenal for his signature.
According to Sky Sports, the midfielder’s release clause has dropped from £45 million to £35 million as a result of the club’s relegation, prompting some interest from the two Premier League clubs and a “number of top European clubs.”
It’s noted that Arsenal may have an advantage in the race to land him though, as their assistant manager, Albert Stuivenberg, worked with him at Genk before Berge made the switch to Brammall Lane.
Berge returned to the Sheffield United team on Sunday after missing four months of the season with a serious hamstring problem. The 23-year-old’s absence has left a major void in the Blades’ midfield, as he boasts a physical presence, defensive awareness and the ability to carry the ball forward.
Given his age and his reputation, it does appear as though it’ll be a challenge for Sheffield United to keep hold of the Norway international, who has made 31 appearances and scored two goals for the club.
For Everton, it’s a signing that would make sense, provided they were able to reduce the asking price further.
The Toffees have lacked presence at the heart of their midfield at times this term, especially in recent weeks with Abdoulaye Doucoure out injured. Additionally, aside from the perennially injured Jean-Philippe Gbamin, they are without a natural holding midfielder in the squad.
Berge could present a solution to those problems. Not only is he multifaceted in his skill set, standing at 6ft 4inch he would bring some much-needed physicality to the team.
Arsenal would potentially be an attractive destination for Berge given the Stuivenberg connection. However, they are now almost certain to be without European football next season.
If Everton can nudge into a Europa League spot come the end of the campaign, then it may give them a small edge when chasing players in this mould.