OPINION
Everton could play a blinder by signing Manchester United captain Antonio Valencia as he reportedly may exit for free in January.
The Sun reported on Sunday that with the 33-year-old’s £100,000-a-week contract set to end in the summer, he could leave this month on loan or even on a free transfer.
The national newspaper claimed that Newcastle United as well as Fulham are keen on Valencia, but the Toffees should intervene to ensure he arrives at Goodison Park.
Marco Silva’s side are in need of another right-back as Seamus Coleman’s form has been a rollercoaster ride of disappointment this season and it’s clearly an area of the team that needs improving.
There would be few betters options to take then Valencia as given his experience and talent, as well as his potential price tag, he would be perfect for the Toffees.
The 33-year-old is capable of bursting up and down the flank in order to be an attacking threat while is also able to be a reliable presence at the back who doesn’t put the side’s defence at risk.
Then there’s the fact that the defender’s leadership qualities could help get the Toffees’ current defence on the same wavelength as it is a bit of a mess at the moment.
Valencia, who has appeared 324 times in the Premier League, is still capable of delivering the goods for a top-flight even if he has only managed eight appearances for Man United this season.
Also more importantly Valencia himself still knows he is capable of excelling at the highest level as according to The Sun’s report, he has been left shocked that Manchester United are willing to let him go.
With all that considered, the Toffees could play blinder by poaching the services of Valencia especially if he does end up being allowed to move in the next week without a transfer fee being needed.