Ronald Koeman looks set to bolster the attacking side of Everton’s game, as he looks to reach a deal for Algerian striker Yacine Brahimi. The Toffees have already signed Yannick Bolasie to bolster their attacking options. And after having convinced, Romelu Lukaku to stay at Goodison Park already this season, Koeman will hope the Algerian will add more firepower to the current team.
Everton had been interested in the Italian striker, Manolo Gabbiadini who currently is with Napoli, but complications mean that the striker may or may not arrive with reports in Italy stating that Everton’s interest has ended. Brahimi, currently with Porto was keen to move to a Champions League playing club. Although, that hasn’t deterred the Merseyside club, from following up on their interest, which seems to have turned the Algerian’s head, with the prospect of Premier League football on offer.
The 26-year-old will sign for a reported sum of around €30 million that could reach €40 million and will be expected to provide the firepower to the Everton side. Everton have already bought Ashley Williams from Swansea City to partner Jagielka in defence and there is a possibility of Cuco Martina also arriving at Goodison Park.
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Having gained his football education at the famous Clairefontaine academy, Yacine was an integral member of France’s youth teams. Although he grew up in France, he chose to represent Algeria, the homeland of his parents like his Algerian counterpart, Riyad Mahrez. Considered a tricky winger, Yacine is also known for his inventive skills and his ability to use both feet.
His time in Spanish football with Granada was also instrumental in the player honing his skills and improving his close ball control. In the season, 2013-14 he even made the most dribbles in the league ahead of Messi and Ronaldo. It now seems that the new coach of Porto FC, Nuno Espirito Santo, has deemed Brahimi surplus to requirements. Complicating the fact is the third party ownership of the player’s economic rights.
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Considered inconsistent in comparison to Mahrez, Yacine’s attitude has often been the reason for his career being stalled. His performances in the UEFA Champions League, 2014-15 season, caught the eye as Porto managed to reach the last eight of the competition. His performances that season even led to him being voted as the BBC African Footballer of the Year.
Wth Everton possessing wingers such as Gerard Deulofeu, Kevin Mirallas, Aaron Lennon, it will be interesting to see where the line-up in the Everton team under Koeman.
