Report: Everton and Leeds United in the Race to Sign ‘Bargain’ £4m Defender | OneFootball

English Clubs Lock Horns Over Bargain Defender

Bargain Hunt: Joyskim Dawa’s Premier League Ambitions

Joyskim Dawa, the Steaua Bucharest centre-back, has recently become the focal point of interest from several Premier League clubs, including Leeds United and Everton. At the age of 28, Dawa has showcased his capabilities in this season’s Europa League, significantly bolstering his appeal in the eyes of top-tier English clubs. According to The Mirror, the defender has been “described as a late bloomer,” and his performances have not gone unnoticed across Europe.

Impressive Performances Spark Interest

The Cameroonian defender’s journey has been diverse, with experiences in Ukraine, Latvia, and Romania, and now he may be set for his biggest move yet. Dawa has appeared nine times for Cameroon and is eager to transition to the Premier League, an ambition spurred by his recent exploits in Europe. One particular standout performance was during a “gutsy 1-0 away win over PAOK” before the international break, where Dawa was named man-of-the-match, highlighting his potential on a larger stage.

Photo: IMAGO

Strategic Transfer Moves

While Dawa shines on the field, the strategic plays off the field could see him landing in England soon. He is currently available at a relatively low cost, thanks to a £4 million release clause in his contract—a bargain in today’s inflated market. This clause has piqued the interest of not only Leeds and Everton but also Fulham, Leicester City, and Burnley. Fulham, in particular, has previously engaged with Dawa’s representatives, fostering a relationship that could prove beneficial as negotiations intensify.

Potential Suitors and Strategic Fits

Everton and Leeds are exploring defensive reinforcements, and Dawa could fit the bill perfectly, providing competition for the first-choice centre-backs at a cost-effective price. The defender’s robust performance in the Europa League positions him as an ideal candidate to bolster defensive lines without breaking the bank.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As an Everton supporter, the prospect of signing Joyskim Dawa is an intriguing one. With Everton’s recent struggles at the back, a player of Dawa’s calibre and experience in European competitions could be precisely what is needed. His performance against PAOK has shown he can handle pressure situations—a trait Everton could greatly benefit from.

Moreover, the £4 million release clause seems like a steal in a market where prices are often inflated, especially for players with international experience. If Dawa can translate his form from the Europa League to the Premier League, this could be one of the signings of the season, offering a blend of experience and proven quality without the hefty price tag.

While the competition for his signature might be fierce, especially with Leeds and Fulham also in the mix, Everton must move swiftly and decisively. This deal not only represents good financial business but also a strategic addition to the squad. Dawa’s potential arrival at Goodison Park could be a significant boost for the Toffees’ defensive lineup and overall team dynamics.