Everton is facing the same task it did four years ago: replacing Idrissa Gueye. The Senegalese international left the club as a free agent in the summer, and the Toffees are now looking for a new central midfielder to fill the void. According to The Athletic, the club has been studying several players and has identified a few potential targets.

What did Gueye bring?

Gueye was known for his prolific ball-winning during his time at Everton. He regularly topped Premier League-wide charts for tackles and interceptions and was a key part of the team's defensive setup. However, his ball-winning did start to wane last season, and the club is now looking for a player who can complement their existing options.

Why it matters for Everton

Everton's new midfielder needs to be comfortable playing predominantly in a 4-2-3-1, but also in a 4-3-3 or with a back three at times. They often defend man-to-man under manager David Moyes, so the ability to cover ground is also key. The manager wants to make his side more technically sound, but last season they averaged one of the lowest possession shares in the Premier League.

What comes next?

The club has reportedly identified several players who fit the profile they are looking for. However, it remains to be seen whether they will be able to sign one of them. With the new season just around the corner, Everton fans will be eagerly waiting to see who their new midfielder will be.

Everton's current league standing is 8th in the Premier League, with 47 points from 32 games. They have scored 39 goals and conceded 37, with a goal difference of +2. They are 23 points behind leaders Arsenal and have a tough fixture list ahead of them, including a match against Sunderland on February 20, 2027.

What kind of profile do Everton want?

Everton's new midfielder needs to be a physically robust player who can complement their existing options. They want a taller player who can help them balance the team out in a different way. The manager wants to make his side more technically sound, but last season they averaged one of the lowest possession shares in the Premier League.

What are the key statistics?

Everton's current league standing is 8th in the Premier League, with 47 points from 32 games. They have scored 39 goals and conceded 37, with a goal difference of +2. They are 23 points behind leaders Arsenal and have a tough fixture list ahead of them, including a match against Sunderland on February 20, 2027.

The club has reportedly identified several players who fit the profile they are looking for. However, it remains to be seen whether they will be able to sign one of them. With the new season just around the corner, Everton fans will be eagerly waiting to see who their new midfielder will be.