How much would Everton bank for Lucas Digne if they were to sell amid Chelsea links?

Vitaliy Mykolenko’s arrival in January could spell the end for the Frenchman’s time at Goodison.
Everton defender Lucas Digne. Picture: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)Everton defender Lucas Digne. Picture: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Everton defender Lucas Digne. Picture: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

It's an impending arrival that many fans believe spells an inevitable departure to follow.

While the vast majority of signings are met with optimism and buoyancy, Everton's soon-to-be latest arrival is bitter-sweet for plenty.

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The Dynamo Kiev left-back is a highly-exciting talent. Aged 22, he already has Champions League experience, is a regular for Ukraine and has been linked with the likes of Manchester United, AC Milan and Roma in the past.

Mykolenko could prove to be a shrewd acquisition as he represents the first player Rafa Benitez's been able to splash serious cash on as manager.

Vitaliy Mykolenko in action for Ukraine at Euro 2020. Picture: PETER DEJONG/POOL/AFP via Getty ImagesVitaliy Mykolenko in action for Ukraine at Euro 2020. Picture: PETER DEJONG/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
Vitaliy Mykolenko in action for Ukraine at Euro 2020. Picture: PETER DEJONG/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

However, supporters are braced that recruiting Mykolenko spells the end of Lucas Digne's time at Goodison Park.

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The Frenchman's relationship with Benitez has reportedly become fractured in recent weeks over tactics.

There's been speculation surrounding Digne's future since he was omitted for games against Arsenal and Crystal Palace, while he was ill for Thursday night's 1-1 draw at Chelsea.

Digne, it is claimed by The Athletic, has been unhappy how he's no longer able to be an attacking influence under the Everton manager.

Indeed, it is Chelsea who are one of the clubs linked with a move to Digne. Atletico Madrid have also been credited with an interest.

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The Guardian reports that Mykolenko, who's set to sign a five-year deal, may pave the way for Digne's departure.

Fans' favourite

Given the defender's performances levels since arriving on Merseyside, it's understandable why sections of supporters would rather he not depart.

Signed from Barcelona for £18 million in 2018, he's been an Everton regular bar the past couple of weeks.

In the previous three seasons, Digne recorded 18 assists and has widely been regarded as one of the best left-backs in the Premier League for some time.

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In fact, according to WhoScored.com ratings, no player has a higher average match rating than his 7.16 since he moved to England.

Despite playing in a side that's finished 10th and 12th in the past two campaigns, Digne's also cemented his berth in the France squad.

But in football, some players just don't suit a certain manager's system or don't they don't see eye to eye.

Usually, when that happens, there's only one outcome - and that's the one in the hot seat winning the battle.

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So if the Blues are to look to sell Digne when the January transfer window opens, how much could they realistically bank?

Making a profit

Well, to start, Everton would demand more than the £18 million they paid for him. That's a given.

At Goodison, Digne's developed his game markedly. He always showed promise during his days at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain but found consistency in royal blue.

What's more, the Blues hold plenty of bargaining chips.

Digne only signed a new long-term deal in February, tying him down until the summer of 2025. Their asset is well protected.

Lucas Digne in action for Everton this season. Picture: Clive Brunskill/Getty ImagesLucas Digne in action for Everton this season. Picture: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images
Lucas Digne in action for Everton this season. Picture: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images

Following precedent

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So, with all that in mind, what should Everton expect if they do want to sell?

Perhaps putting a valuation on Digne can stem from how much left-backs have been bought for in the past.

There have been a few left-sided full-backs who've been moved on for substantial fees in recent seasons in the Premier League alone.

In the summer of 2019, Arsenal purchased Kieran Tierney from Celtic for a reported fee of £25 million.

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The following year, Sergio Reguilon was bought by Tottenham for a similar price from Real Madrid.

The pair were both younger than Digne is now (both 22) and had potential when recruited. But Digne's an established pro in his peak years and has four years, at least, remaining at the top of his game.

Digne's said to be lined up as a replacement for Ben Chilwell at Chelsea while he recovers from a long-term knee injury.

When the England international left Leciester for Stamford Bridge in 2020, it's claimed the fee was £45 million.

Ben Chilwell is currently sidelined for Chelsea. Picture: Catherine Ivill/Getty ImagesBen Chilwell is currently sidelined for Chelsea. Picture: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
Ben Chilwell is currently sidelined for Chelsea. Picture: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
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Realistically, Everton may not be able to demand that sort of figure. However, in the region of £30 million-plus would be respectable.

It would pay for Digne's replacement, along with giving the Toffees more cash to reinvest elsewhere.

Transfermrkt currently values him at £31.5 million.

Right for both parties

This season, there has been some scrutiny over Digne's performances from supporters. Plenty accept he's not hit the heights capable of and failed to register an assist.

In truth, a sale could work out best for both parties.

With Everton cash-strapped and needing to raise funds, flogging Digne is a way to raise funds. Aged 28, he might be at his zenith but his value will only start to decline in the next couple of seasons.

As for Digne, he rightly has aspirations of playing Champions League football. It wouldn't be a surprise, if he were to leave, that he joined a club in Europe's elite competition.