It's shaping up to be a big summer in the Premier League. The midfield market has already kicked into life, with some record deals on the table, and the attacking market is likely to follow.
Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Fulham and Everton are all targeting El Bilal Toure. Newcastle, of course, are trying to revive Eddie Howe's squad after losing Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali in the space of 12 months.
Aston Villa, on the other hand, are looking for additions ahead of their Champions League return and in the event of a record move from Morgan Rogers. A minor case for Everton and Fulham, with the Toffees looking to back David Moyes and the West London club eyeing Alvaro Arbeloa's first signing.
|
Football FanCast verdict |
|
|---|---|
|
Honesty |
Toure has been on the radar of several Premier League clubs after a successful loan spell at Besiktas and now needs the permanent move that England can offer. You will come even at a low price. |
|
Finance |
Reports now suggest Atalanta could sell the winger for just €18m (£15m) this summer. That would be good for all four Premier League sides who are interested. |
|
Understanding |
It's easy to write off a 24-year-old after two loan spells. Atalanta certainly has. But it is important to point out that, for £15m, clubs can get a winger who recorded 12 goals involvement last season. |
|
Impact |
The frontrunners in the race to sign Toure will be Aston Villa. They need better depth ahead of their return to the Champions League and the Atalanta man will provide that and could be a quality replacement for Rogers if needed. |
Premier League sides have a lot to consider in their pursuit of Toure. However, in a summer of fearsome transfer fees, he could be an undeniable asset.
The race leader emerges as the Premier League battle begins
According to Africa Foot, as reported by Sport Witness, Fulham are leading the race to sign Toure ahead of Aston Villa, Newcastle and Everton this summer.
All four clubs are chasing a deal, with Atalanta willing to accept just €18m (£15m) for the winger, who impressed on loan at Besiktas last season.
Whether that means an offer is on the way from Craven Cottage remains to be seen. If so, Villa would be wise to match that offer.
Why Aston Villa should battle Fulham to sign Toure
Aston Villa learned the hard way last week that squad depth is key to any success when balancing domestic football with the Champions League. It is no mistake that they will want to do it again. Even if they are still somewhat restricted by the SCR rules, Toure's deal is a great opportunity.
The winger is within their reach financially and would serve as a perfect depth option for Emery. If Rogers also leaves, then Unai Emery will need all the creative players he can get. Toure, too, ticks that box.
