Everton are reportedly positioning themselves to make Orel Mangala’s loan move permanent, as Lyon’s dire financial situation could open the door for a discounted deal.
With the French side on the brink of relegation to Ligue 2 due to crippling debts of over £400 million, a fire sale of their key players appears imminent — and Mangala could be one of the first to leave, according to correspondent Pete O’Rourke.
Speaking on the latest Inside Track podcast, O’Rourke hinted at a potential bargain for the Toffees, who are keen to leverage Lyon’s precarious financial state. “The Premier League club could land Mangala on a bit of a discount,” he noted, emphasizing the strategic timing of Everton’s interest in the Belgian international.
Currently on a straight loan deal at Goodison Park, Mangala’s contract does not include an obligation to buy, leaving Everton in a favorable negotiating position. The club can approach the talks with confidence, knowing Lyon are desperate to generate revenue. While the French outfit initially paid £15 million to secure Mangala’s services 18 months ago, Everton will likely push to lower the fee significantly, capitalizing on Lyon’s financial distress.
Mangala has quietly but effectively settled into life under Sean Dyche, becoming a pivotal part of Everton’s midfield setup. The 26-year-old has featured in eight Premier League games this season, starting five of them, as Dyche has shown faith in the player’s ability to anchor the midfield and shield the defense.
Advertisement
Latest Press Conference
We’re on Social Media
His Premier League experience, bolstered by a previous stint at Nottingham Forest where he made 58 appearances, has undoubtedly helped him adapt to the demands of the league. With a mix of composure on the ball and tenacity off it, Mangala has emerged as one of the few bright spots in what has been a challenging campaign for Everton.
Lyon’s relegation predicament has turned the spotlight on Mangala’s future, and Everton appear well-placed to benefit. The prospect of securing a Premier League-ready midfielder at a reduced price could prove invaluable as the Toffees look to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window.
Adding to Everton’s optimism is the anticipated injection of funds following The Friedkin Group’s takeover. Reports suggest that the club’s new ownership is prepared to invest in squad reinforcements to stave off another relegation battle. With finances set to improve, Everton’s ability to secure deals like Mangala’s on favorable terms could be a turning point in their season.
Mangala’s performances this season have showcased his importance to Everton’s survival hopes. His versatility as a defensive midfielder and his ability to break up opposition play have made him an essential piece of Dyche’s tactical puzzle. Fans and pundits alike have praised his ability to transition from defense to attack, adding a layer of dynamism to Everton’s midfield.
Despite the club’s struggles, Mangala has remained consistent, underlining why Everton should make his stay a permanent one. The deal could also symbolize a statement of intent from the new ownership, signaling that the club is ready to move forward with a more ambitious vision.
While the immediate focus for Everton remains on climbing out of the lower reaches of the Premier League table, the acquisition of Mangala could provide much-needed stability. His presence in the squad not only strengthens the current lineup but also demonstrates a long-term strategy to build around proven Premier League talent.
With Lyon’s financial crisis serving as the backdrop, the coming weeks will likely see developments in Mangala’s future. For Everton, the opportunity to secure a player of his caliber at a reduced cost is one they can’t afford to miss.
Sean Dyche’s ability to maximize Mangala’s potential has already been evident, and a permanent move could cement the Belgian’s role as a cornerstone of Everton’s rebuild. The January transfer window looms large, and Mangala’s case will be one to watch as the Toffees navigate the fine line between survival and progression.
For Everton fans, the prospect of Mangala staying beyond this season is a glimmer of hope in an otherwise turbulent period. The next step is for the club to act decisively, ensuring they don’t let a golden opportunity slip through their fingers.