Primeira Liga giants Benfica are not expected to launch a bid to sign 24-year-old Cameroonian international Enzo Boyomo from La Liga club Osasuna this summer.
According to a report by Africa Foot, Everton and Fulham are among the clubs interested in Enzo Boyomo. Ipswich Town and Como are also vying for the Osasuna centre-back’s signature, and they have a clearer run at him amid Benfica’s reluctance to submit an offer. Meanwhile, Los Rojillos will demand around €25 million to part ways with the 24-year-old defender.
Enzo Boyomo and his soaring stock
Enzo Boyomo has established himself as one of the most underrated defenders in La Liga since joining CA Osasuna from Real Valladolid last summer. Born in Toulouse, the 24-year-old spent most of his formative years in his hometown before graduating from the youth division at Blackburn Rovers. However, he has risen in prominence since moving to Spain a few years ago.
The Cameroonian international has made over 50 appearances thus far for CA Osasuna while chipping in with three goals and two assists. Meanwhile, Boyomo’s progress has piqued the attention of several well-known clubs. A return to England may be on the cards, with Everton and Fulham among the prospective suitors vying for his signature, particularly after Benfica’s decision.
Premier League move on the horizon?
Benfica will target a centre-back in the ongoing transfer window, as widespread reports have linked Antonio Silva and Tomas Araujo with moves away from Estadio da Luz. That has forced them to identify potential centre-back targets, with Jorge Cuenca among the players they are pursuing. Boyomo was also a viable target due to his age profile and adept reading of the game, but Benfica are not ready to pay €25 million to sign him.
Meanwhile, Fulham’s long-standing interest in Enzo Boyomo makes sense. With Jorge Cuenca recently emerging as a target for several clubs, including Benfica, they must pursue a replacement option. So, while Joachim Andersen and Calvin Bassey have been exceptional for the West London outfit, having an alternative in the squad will serve them well.
As for Everton, Michael Keane and James Tarkowski are on the wrong side of 30 and approaching the twilight of their careers. With Jarrad Branthwaite struggling with fitness issues in the last 18 months, the Toffees have a centre-back crisis waiting to happen. Boyomo has thus emerged as a viable target, as he has the age profile and style of play to immediately become an asset for Everton.
Meanwhile, Osasuna’s asking price of €25 million is not excessive despite Benfica’s stance. The Cameroonian international is approaching the prime years of his career and has the physical profile to hit the ground in the Premier League.