Everton don’t need to panic buy to replace Bolasie – and here’s why
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While Everton fans are still getting over the news that their £30m summer signing, Yannick Bolasie, has been ruled out for the rest of the season, they can rest safe in the knowledge that they don’t have to go out and panic buy in January.
And that’s because they already have a replacement in Gerard Deulofeu, who will certainly benefit from the DR Congo international’s absence.
The 22-year-old certainly isn’t lacking in experience, having already notched up 61 Premier League appearances since the 2013-14 season, despite spending a year at Sevilla.
And while many of those appearances for the Toffees have been from the bench, the Spaniard certainly knows how to make an impact, boasting 11 goals and 28 assists in all competitions since 2013 for the Merseyside outfit and Los Rojiblancos.
A product of the famous La Masia, Deulofeu is undoubtedly one of the trickiest players in the division to play against when he’s at his best.
Comfortable on the ball, equally effective off it, and with a real eye for a clinical pass, the former Barcelona man has so far started just three of Everton’s 14 league games this season, but can expect to find himself in plenty more starting line-ups over the next few months.
Yes, Koeman has been linked with a move for compatriot and Manchester United outcast Memphis Depay in recent weeks. But it’d be risky to rely on him to deliver the goods at Goodison Park having been out of the limelight for much of the last 18 months.
It’d take time for him to find confidence again, and it’s time Everton can’t afford to be giving players right now, especially given that they’ve won just one of their last nine league matches.
Another name that’s been linked with a move to Merseyside in recent days is Leicester City’s Demarai Gray.
But again, while Gray would be an excellent addition to the squad long-term, it’s unlikely he’ll make much of an impact this season.
The verdict?
Give Deulofeu a run in the first-team, and reap the rewards.
What do supporters think? Should Koeman make a move for someone in the January transfer window, or is Deulofeu a solid enough replacement?
Have your say in the comments section below!
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