Sevilla are reportedly in a “pole position” ahead of Everton to sign Manchester United’s talented midfielder Hannibal Mejbri on loan this January.
According to Football Insider, Sevilla still look like the most likely loan destination for Manchester United’s energetic midfielder Hannibal Mejbri, despite a late move from Everton to hijack the deal in the last few days.
Despite impressing Red Devils’ faithful with his positive battling attitude in his cameo appearances on the pitch, the 20-year-old has struggled for minutes this season, which consequently ruled him out of the Africa Cup of Nations with Tunisia.
Hannibal has made just five appearances in the Premier League this season, scoring his first goal in a 3-1 defeat to Brighton in the embryonic stage of the campaign. Therefore, a loan move away from Old Trafford could be the best thing for his development.
Last week, transfer guru Romano announced that Hannibal was set to join Sevilla on loan, with all parties having given the green light to the deal. However, Everton then entered the race at the 11th hour in an attempt to hijack the move and bring the midfielder to Goodison Park.
The Toffees’ boss Sean Dyche has already admitted that it is likely to be a “quiet” winter window for the Toffees, with the club still in a precarious position financially.
As a result, the Merseysiders will be looking at loan moves as a creative solution; therefore, bringing Hannibal in may be a solid piece of business. On the face of it, remaining in the Premier League could suit him better than a switch to Spain.
An attacking midfielder who can also operate as a winger or as a No. 8, Hannibal could slot nicely into Dyche’s plans as they already play with Abdoulaye Doucoure in a No. 10 role.
He could also get plenty of chances out wide and in midfield, with Dwight McNeil picking up a significant injury against Crystal Palace on Thursday, while Idrissa Gueye’s absence for the African Cup of Nations could open up a spot in the midfield department.
However, as per Football Insider, Everton could be about to face defeat in their attempts to swoop in Hannibal’s services this winter. Manchester United are demanding a “seven-figure” loan fee for the Tunisian, and the suitor will also have to cover his full wages, something the Toffees’ are mulling over.
As things stand, Sevilla are leading the race and are holding a fresh round of discussions in their continued bid to get the deal over the line.
