Jamie Carragher warns Man Utd and Arsenal off transfer for Everton star as he says ‘I don’t know what he is’
JAMIE CARRAGHER has warned Arsenal and Manchester United to steer clear of trying to sign Everton midfielder Amadou Onana.
Onana, 22, has long been linked with an exit from Goodison, with the Gunners coming close to a bid in January.
Erik Ten Hag’s side considered a move for the Belgium international last year, while Chelsea also disclosed their interest.
The Toffees’ valuation of over £50million eventually prevented talks from going further with all three clubs.
As a result of Everton’s well-documented financial issues, highly-rated players such as Onana are looked at as ideal sale income.
But despite some brilliant performances last season, which helped Everton remain in the Premier League, Carragher is not convinced by Onana.
Carragher stressed that it would be a mistake for top clubs to sign him after Everton’s humiliating 6-0 defeat at Chelsea on Monday.
He told Sky Sports: “I must say this, Onana is a player who Everton may have to sell with the situation that they find themselves in financially.
“He came in with a huge reputation. Frank Lampard brought him in, he looks the part, did really well for Belgium at Wembley and there was talk of him going to other big clubs.
“But I don’t see it. I haven’t since he’s been there.
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“I don’t know what he is. Is he a holding midfield player? Does he get forward? Does he get involved?
“The only thing I have seen him do is try to lift the crowd, that is all I ever see him do when he plays for Everton.”
Onana was withdrawn at halftime by manager Sean Dyche after the team conceded four goals in the first half, with Cole Palmer securing Chelsea’s fastest ever hat-trick inside 28 minutes.
Onana has made 32 appearances in all competitions for Everton this season, scoring three goals and making one assist.
The club’s ongoing financial difficulties – which has seen them twice deducted points – may once again force them to make significant player sales this summer.
Defender Jarrad Branthwaite – who was removed through injury at Stamford Bridge – has been heavily linked with a transfer to United.
But Red Devils fans have urged their club to abandon a move for the England international, who Everton value at £70m.
Dyche’s side currently sit 16th, just two points clear from the drop, with six games remaining.