Noel Whelan has backed Everton to sign Harry Winks, who is reportedly available for a transfer in January, to upgrade their midfield options.
Everton have struggled lately with many injuries to key midfielders. Abdoulaye Doucoure was the latest to enter the treatment room as he joined Andre Gomes and others. The Frenchman’s untimely absence seems to have affected their performances, as Rafael Benitez’s men have lost their last three Premier League games.
The Toffees are expected to reinforce the midfield area when the transfer window re-opens in January, with Benitez probably having set sights on a few targets he would like to sign. If reports are to be believed, among them is Harry Winks, as the Tottenham midfielder is available for a transfer.
Winks has played sporadically over the last two seasons and barely featured under former manager Nuno Espirito Santo this term. The midfielder is not expected to become an important part of new manager Antonio Conte’s plans either and could leave in January.
Everton have reportedly enquired with Spurs about his availability, and they might work out a deal soon. Tottenham are thought to want around £25 million for the 10-cap England international. The Toffees, though, are unlikely to be willing to pay so much for a player who has barely played regular football in the past couple of years.
However, according to Noel Whelan, Winks could be an upgrade to current Everton midfielder Tom Davies, who has featured in each of those three consecutive defeats. Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan explained his thought on the Toffees’ midfield situation and backed them to go after the England international
Whelan said, “No disrespect to Tom Davies, but Harry Winks would be an upgrade. He’s a player who can control games very well. A loan move would be best, in my opinion. It would allow him to get some games under his belt because it’s obviously not working out at Tottenham.
“Everton could do with a player like Winks in their midfield to help rekindle the form they showed at the start of the season. Between the two wingers – Gray and Townsend – who have been so impressive this season, Calvert-Lewin returning to fitness, and potentially Winks in the side, there’s a nice balance there.”
Despite being linked with a host of Premier League sides, Winks is not the player that would excite fans. His effectiveness might also be questionable, and for the price Spurs are reportedly demanding, the 25-year-old may not be worth it.
