Everton Opinion: Why the Toffees should go all out for Armando Izzo?

According to a report from Calciomercato, Everton and Arsenal are interested in Torino defender Armando Izzo.

The Italian, 27, has become a vital part of the Torino backline since joining the club from Genoa last summer. He was an ever-present figure in the back four, making 37 league appearances in what was his debut campaign for the Turin-based club.

Along with Nicolas N’Koulou at the heart of Torino’s backline, Izzo helped Walter Mazzarri’s side manage the fifth-best defensive record in the Serie A. That saw Torino achieve an impressive seventh-place finish in the table this past season.

Izzo’s performances have rightfully attracted the interest of some top clubs. However, any team interested in signing the centre-back would likely have to pay closer to €35m-€40million to secure his signature, the report adds. That being said, Everton must attempt to beat Arsenal to land the Italian defender from Torino.

The Toffees need to sign a reliable partner for Michael Keane now that Kurt Zouma has returned to Chelsea after his season-long loan expired.

After signing Andre Gomes on a permanent basis from Barcelona, Marco Silva has made it clear to Everton that he wants to sign Zouma permanently. However, Chelsea’s two-window transfer ban could see newly-appointed manager Frank Lampard keep hold of the Frenchman.

The Royal Blues have Mina at their disposal but the Colombian has been quite injury prone over the last year. That’s one of the primary reasons why Silva wants to sign Zouma from Chelsea. Nevertheless, if that doesn’t happen and Everton fails to land Zouma on a permanent basis, Izzo would be an ideal alternative to consider.

Izzo was one of the best defenders in the Serie A this past season and he could transform Everton’s defence next season. He is known for his ability on the ball, never afraid to come out of his line and pick out midfielders and wingers with his incisive passes. He is strong on the tackle and a tough opponent in the air, making him an indirect threat from set-pieces.

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A hard-tackling defender, the Italian international’s determination coupled with his willingness to win back possession for his team makes him an asset in the defensive aspect of the game. Another key aspect of the 27-year-old’s game is his versatility, as Izzo can operate at right-back when required.

Verdict

Marco Silva is building a team capable of breaking into the top six and players like Izzo are ideal. For the aforementioned price, the Italian would represent a shrewd signing for the Toffees.