TBR View: Reported interest from Everton in Zakaria surely spells end of Gomes

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Everton are reportedly chasing a move for Denis Zakaria in what could be bad news for Andre Gomes.

What’s the story?

According to Sport Bild (via The Sun), the Blues, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur want the Borussia Monchengladbach ace.

And the trio have been quoted €20m (£17m) by the Bundesliga outfit to sign the Swiss star.

But with Zakaria coming in, it could mean bad news for the likes of Gomes. He was in and out of the side last season, playing just over 1,500 minutes in the Premier League.

The Portuguese midfielder is reportedly a target for Primera Liga outfit Benfica. According to the latest reports, Rafael Benitez wants to sell the player in a bid to lower the wage bill.

Why is Gomes in danger of leaving Everton?

In one simple answer: numbers.

Everton have far too many players in their squad and need to lower the numbers.

This is especially true in the centre of midfield, where the Toffees have six different options, including the former Barcelona man.

When you consider the fact that Everton have played a 4-2-3-1 formation throughout pre-season, there is little room for six players.

And then you have to take note of the club’s lack of European football. While having strength in depth is always good, some players will get frozen out when there is only one game a week.

It would be a sad end to his time in the northwest but, if Zakaria joins, Gomes could be the one to leave Everton before October.