[ad_pod ]
Everton are trying to sign Argentinian teenager Santiago Sosa from River Plate this summer for a reported £13.25m.
Who is he?
The youngster has been linked with a move to the Toffees this summer in a move which would represent a significant step forward in his career, with Portuguese manager Marco Silva keen to add depth to his midfield.
Sosa is 20 years of age and was born in La Plata in Argentina, and plays for South American giants River Plate.
However, a move to the Premier League could be on even if attaining a work permit is likely to be an issue.
What’s his style of play?
Sosa represents a type of player Everton haven’t enjoyed at their club for a while, a player in the mould of Mikel Arteta who used to grace Goodison Park with classy displays under David Moyes.
It’s not too far-fetched to compare the two, at least in style. Sosa is also a defensive midfielder who boasts a lot of the same qualities needed to be a fantastic number 10. He’s got a tremendous range of pass, which is vital to the role he plays.
If he were to line up alongside Idrissa Gueye in the heart of the Everton midfield, you’d feel the Toffees man would be the engine and energy in the side while Sosa would deliver the calming influence and dictating role his team will need to break opposition teams down.
Sosa provides an out-ball for his teammates as well. While the Everton midfield is expected to be incredibly dynamic on the press and fluid in attacking motions, the Argentinian typically holds a very central position, waiting to receive the ball and recycle possession. His passing range, intelligence in his movement, and skill to get away from a tight situation gives him the quality needed to succeed at Goodison Park.
2018-19 in numbers
Last season Sosa played the defensive midfield role using his main strength, which is his passing range and ability to dictate the tempo of games. In his appearances this season the Argentine has averaged 37 passes per game and has a pass completion rate of 85.3%, according to WhoScored.
Defensively though, Sosa doesn’t stand out quite as much, averaging just 2.5 tackles per game.
This season River Plater finished fourth in the Primera Division league table, behind bitter rivals Boca Juniors. Anyone else enjoyed a similar path?
Gonzalo Higuain: The striker came from River Plate and enjoyed his football at Chelsea last term. He’s had wonderful spells at Real Madrid and Juventus while enjoying a plenty of game time with Argentina as well.
Alexis Sanchez: The forward is currently at Manchester United having played for Barcelona and Arsenal as well, some of the biggest clubs in the world.
When will we see him?
The deal to bring Sosa to Everton reportedly hinges on a work permit and potential passport issues, but if all can be agreed and settled then fans should expect to see Sosa playing in the first-team next season – perhaps not immediately from the start though, as Silva would surely ease him in.
The ex-Watford boss has a reputation for trusting youngsters having given Richarlison his big move to the Premier League and using him regularly back in 2017-2018, so there’s no reason why he may not do the same again.
