Everton and Newcastle United have reportedly been linked with a move for the Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Leander Dendoncker this summer.
According to a report from Football Insider, Newcastle United are looking to hijack Everton’s move for 27-year-old Belgian defensive midfielder Leander Dendoncker before summer the transfer window closes.
The report further adds that Everton have had an £8.5 million bid rejected for the 27-year-old by fellow Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers. And the Toffees are set to return to the negotiating table with an improved offer soon, although they face a hijack from Newcastle United.
Everton are determined to improve their midfield options before the summer transfer window closes, and they have identified the Belgian defensive midfielder as a priority target.
It is no secret that Everton are in desperate need of reinforcement, and the 27-year-old could prove to be an excellent addition to Frank Lampard’s side. Dendoncker is well settled in the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact at Goodison Park this season.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United are keen on signing in the defensive midfielder as well, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up eventually. There is no doubt that Newcastle have more financial resources after their takeover, and they have already made some big moves in the transfer market this year.
If the Magpies, who have been linked with Edson Alvarez among others, can get Dendoncker and partner him with Bruno Guimaraes at the heart of their midfield, it would give them a solid base to build on. Furthermore, the 27-year-old midfielder is likely to be tempted to move to St. James’ Park because of their ambition as well.
Dendoncker can operate as a defensive midfielder as well as a centre-back, and his versatility will be an added bonus for any club he decides to join. The 27-year-old has fallen down the pecking order at the Molineux since the arrival of club record signing Matheus Nunes, and he needs to leave the Premier League club to play regular first-team football.
A move to Newcastle United would allow him to play regular first-team football at a high level. Furthermore, it is fair to assume that Newcastle will likely push for European football soon, given their resources and ability to bring in top players. Any player at a midtable club would be tempted to join the Magpies over Everton right now.
