Everton boss Roberto Martinez is contemplating a £2.5million move for Belgian teenage midfield sensation Bernard Malanda-Adje.
Malanda-Adje is small but muscular and has been outstanding for his new club – and Martinez is keen to snap him up before other clubs come sniffing.
The 18-year-old, known as Junior, plies his trade in the Pro League in his homeland for SV Zulte-Waregem who finished runners-up in the table last season. He started his career with French outfit Lille but moved to his current team last summer.
Everton are keen to invest in young talent who’s stock will rise as they aim to keep in touch with big spending Premier League powerhouses.
Arsenal are also being linked with the young Belgian, but it’s thought their move for Mauroane Fellaini is likely to kybosh any deal for his countryman with Arsene Wenger needing instant results.
Malanda plays in a holding midfield role and has been likened to Fellaini due to his strength and his ability on the ball. He can also fill in as a centre-back if need be.
Malanda-Adje has played for all of Belgium’s youth sides, from under-15’s to under-19’s, and is on the cusp of a call up to the full Belgium national side.
Manchester United and Fulham are also thought to be interested.
Malanda was linked with Everton and Spurs last week.
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