Everton are keen to land Borussia Monchengladbach star Alassane Plea amidst competition from Ligue 1.
According to L’Equipe, Premier League side Everton have thrown their name in the hat for the services of Borussia Monchengladbach star Alassane Plea.
The 29-year-old moved to the Bundesliga from OGC Nice in 2018 and has since established himself as a reliable performer in the German top flight. Plea has since made 142 appearances for Die Fohlen, scoring 47 goals and assisting 28 more.
His four-year association with the German side appears to be coming to an unceremonious end. Plea’s contract at the club expires in a year, and as things stand, he is no closer to extending his stay at Borussia Park.
The Frenchman is keen to make Didier Deschamps’ squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and believes his best chance of doing so is to return to Ligue 1. Olympique Marseille and former side OGC Nice are interested in his services and could offer him an escape route this summer.
Everton are also in the fray and have a big fight on their cards in securing Plea. Capable of playing anywhere along the frontline, the 29-year-old would be a hugely versatile addition to Frank Lampard’s roster. The Chelsea legend helped Everton stave off relegation last season but now has a fight on his hands to repeat the same next season.
His task will not have been made easier following the sale of Richarlison to Tottenham Hotspur. With Dominic Calvert-Lewin having endured injury issues and the rest of the forwards failing to fire, Lampard’s attack could do with some shrewd additions. Valued at £6.8 million, 29-year-old Plea is available on the cheap and could prove to be an inspired addition.
Plea isn’t just prolific in front of goal but is also a good passer who can link up well with the players around him. However, he is a poor crosser of the ball and is also unable to compete in the air. Given the physical nature of the English top flight, this could prove to be telling for the French international.
Everton’s task is not easy, given the widespread interest in the player. However, he is not a priority for Nice, while Marseille need to sell before they can buy. As long as Everton act fast, there is every reason to believe that they can get their man. Plea would enjoy regular playing time at Goodison Park but whether he will be open to moving to England or opts to return to his homeland remains to be seen.
