Everton linked with transfer swoop for Napoli midfielder - with Chelsea star also considered

While Everton have already signed four players this summer, they could be targeting a Napoli midfielder to round off their business.

A new target has emerged following a development in Antonio Conte’s squad; 25-year-old Jens Cajuste could be set for an exit with TeamTalk claiming his agent is currently in England hoping to source a move away for his client. The report claims that the Toffees are in talk with the Swede’s representatives over a potential deal. Cajuste is also said to be keen on playing in the Premier League.

Brentford have been credited with an interest while Ipswich also had him on their radar, but stepped aside to pursue another Everton target in Kalvin Phillips. A deal could even include an option-to-buy as well with the loan as he is understood not to be in Conte’s plan for the upcoming season.

If such a deal doesn’t work out, then TeamTalk claim that Chelsea’s Lesley Ugochukwu is another option. The 20-year-old is likely to depart given the massive surplus of players currently in the first-team squad and the London club are open to a loan deal.

Cajuste or Ugochukwu?

Both feature in centre/defensive midfield but Cajuste is the more experienced having played in Denmark, France, Italy and Sweden. Whereas Ugochukwu has made 60 appearances for Rennes and 15 for Chelsea so far - but he has been tipped for success from a young age and has the higher ceiling.

Cajuste’s figures across the past year compared to midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues have him ranked in the 95th percentile for tackles, 92nd for blocks, 90th for successful take-ons and 88th for progressive passes received. He operated more advanced than a defensive-minded player last season but there is a reason why he can’t adjust given ability to make defensive actions - and he’s also good on the ball which will help in that role.

For Ugochukwu, we have to look at the 2022/23 season which was when he last played a full campaign. Starring for Rennes as a teenager, he ranked no lower than the 65th percentile (highest 84th) for all of the defensive metrics: clearances, tackles, aerials won, interceptions and blocks. He ranked high for passes completed as well and he acts as a more natural defensive midfielder who has had plenty of time to train and improve with top players at Chelsea.

Overall, either signing would be welcome given that the market is tough and Everton have limited funds. Both would have a positive impact and could play next to James Garner, Idrissa Gueye or Tim Ireogbunam. Ugochukwu is the more naturally defensive midfielder out of the two and is acclimatised in the Premier League but Cajuste offers more experience. Again, either one would be a welcome addition on a temporary contract.