Everton are exploring a number of potential transfers this summer.
David Moyes is interested in signing Jack Grealish from Manchester City, who are demanding at least £50m to sanction his sale.
Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi has been linked to Everton, too, and it’s understood the Nigeria international has a relegation release clause of just £9m.
The Toffees also have their sights set on Habib Diarra after his standout season in France with RC Strasbourg.
Diarra scored in Senegal’s 3-1 win against England on Tuesday evening and received glowing praise from African media.
Now, Everton midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye has just sent him a six-word message amid links to Goodison Park.
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Idrissa Gana Gueye’s message to Everton target Habib Diarra
Diarra has been given the green light to leave Strasbourg this summer, and that’s alerted a number of Premier League clubs.
Leeds United have lodged a £22m bid for Diarra, whilst Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is preparing an offer, too.
So clearly, Everton are up against it to land his signature, however, they may have a secret weapon up their sleeve.
That’s because Gueye is Diarra’s compatriot, and it seems the pair have a good relationship, with the Toffees star sending him a message on Instagram after their triumph against England.
Beneath Diarra’s post, he wrote: “Tell us your real job please,” followed by a fire emoji.
Habib Diarra stats 2024/25
Diarra established himself as one of the best young midfielders on the continent last season as he captained RC Strasbourg to a seventh-placed finish.
The 21-year-old is valued at around £25m by the French club, who are actually owned by Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly.
Diarra registered nine goal involvements from the number eight role, and his underlying data was really impressive, too.
- 33 appearances
- 4 goals
- 5 assists
According to FBref, the Senegal international ranks in the top 12 per cent for progressive carries per 90 compared to his positional peers across Europe, evincing his exceptional dribbling ability.
Diarra also sits in the top 13 per cent for assists, so he’s clearly a very forward-thinking and creative player, which is exactly what Everton need.
Abdoulaye Doucoure will leave the Toffees later this month, so Moyes needs to replace the former Watford star with a similar profile.
Diarra certainly appears to be that man.
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