Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has been blown away by Amadou Onana just weeks after he was linked with a move to St James’ Park.
The 21-year-old has been named in Shearer’s Premier League team of the week after producing an excellent display in Everton’s 1-0 win over Arsenal.
It was an incredible result for the Toffees, with Sean Dyche picking up three points in his first game in charge. James Tarkowski scored the only goal of the game, but it was Onana who won the Player of the Match award.
The Belgium international was exceptional at Goodison Park, and was singled out for praise by Shearer.
He wrote: “A tireless display against Arsenal. Ran himself into the ground.”
For all of Everton’s difficulties this season, Onana has been a shining light in blue. He arrived on Merseyside during the summer, costing £33million from Lille.
The midfielder is going to be vital in their bid to avoid relegation, but he could have left the club in January had things gone differently.
Newcastle asked about signing Amadou Onana last month
While Newcastle were able bring in Anthony Gordon from Everton during the January transfer window, they also considered signing another player from Goodison Park.
According to 90min, the Magpies asked Everton about the possibility of bringing Onana to St James’ Park. He also had interest from Chelsea, who wanted everyone and anyone last month.
The Blues even held talks with Onana about a move to Stamford Bridge, but he turned down their advances. It is likely he would have done the same if Newcastle had launched an official bid.
It was the second transfer window in a row that Eddie Howe’s side were linked with Onana. He was also a target in the summer, with rumours that he could be reunited with Sven Botman on Tyneside.
But he moved to Everton instead, and that is where he stayed in January. It will be interesting to see if he returns to Newcastle’s radar in the summer, as the Magpies are set to be in the market for a midfielder.
Dan Ashworth will be looking to sign someone who can operate in the middle of the park ahead of next season, and Onana is certainly proving that he has what it takes to shine in black and white.
His ‘tireless’ performance would suit Howe’s all-action style, as he clearly boasts the energy that is required to succeed in the Toon manager’s midfield. He is also competent in possession, and can go box-to-box just like Joe Willock and Joelinton.
Onana looks like someone who could shine at Newcastle, which is why the club have already targeted him twice. Sadly, they have been unable to bring him to St James’ Park so far.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
