Amadou Onana’s Everton future has been a topic of conversation since he completed his move to Merseyside in 2022.
The 22-year-old has been impressive since breaking into Sean Dyche’s first XI and has all the attributes to be a top-class midfielder.
Given his age and natural ability, interest from elsewhere cannot come as a surprise.
Reports suggest Manchester United are keeping a keen eye on the Belgian, with Jarrad Branthwaite also being watched. Having signed the likes of Wayne Rooney, Romelu Lukaku and Marouane Fellaini, there’s certainly a history of players making the switch to Old Trafford.
However, United aren’t the only team reportedly interested in Onana’s services. Barcelona are rumoured to be interested in signing the midfielder. However, the Catalan giants could well have moved on to other targets.
Everton: Barcelona priced out of move for Amadou Onana
According to Spanish news outlet Sport, Onana’s price tag is out of Barcelona’s reach.
The report claims that, due to Barca’s complicated economic situation, a maximum of £39million can be spent on a new midfielder.
It’s believed a move for Onana has been explored, with Sport referring to the midfielder as a “physical marvel”. However, it’s understood Everton are not willing to part ways with the 22-year-old for anything less than £51million.
Everton signed the Belgian from Lille for £30million, and it’s believed the club would be eager to double their money should he depart.
Should Everton sell Amadou Onana?
Keeping hold of Onana will show intent from the board. He’s a player who could be worth a significant amount in just a couple of years—more than the £51million asking price.
Furthermore, the 22-year-old was eager to move to Goodison Park and seems committed to the club’s long-term ambitions.
This view isn’t shared by Michael Ball, who suggested Onana is using the club as a stepping stone before moving onto one of Europe’s elite.
“They’ve just suffered a tough derby defeat so you’ve got to try and get at them, it’s up to players like Onana who seemingly want to use Everton as a stepping stone to start showing their ability and prove to the Evertonians why we brought them to the football club by getting the points on the board that we need,” he told The Liverpool Echo.