Everton’s star player, who cost £48 million in January, has “massive potential,” and Man United are frustrated.

Manchester United’s efforts to get Everton midfielder Amadou Onana in the January transfer window have been frustrated because Arsenal is a “more realistic” destination for the player.

The 22-year-old is gaining interest from around Europe before the mid-season sales after his strong campaign on Merseyside. Onana has often been a bright light under Blues boss Sean Dyche with his often imposing performances and solid consistency in Everton’s engine room.

When healthy, Onana is a regular member of the Toffees’ driving force, having missed four Premier League games due to injury this season. However, according to Dean Jones, Manchester United and Arsenal are among the teams interested in Onana’s move from Everton.

Arsenal are more likely to seal Amadou Onana’s transfer than Manchester United

Jones claims the likelihood of Onana leaving Everton in January is ‘slim’. But Arsenal will be a ‘more realistic’ destination for the nine-cap Belgian than Manchester United should he leave Goodison Park next month. Yet the north London side’s budget also makes a move doubtful.

The Gunners are likely to have limited funds in January, so Mikel Arteta may be unable to go after Onana.

Arsenal are firmly interested in his transfer, though, and are drawing up reports on how the 6 ft 4 enforcer would fit into their current XI under ex-Everton midfielder Arteta.

Arsenal are currently studying how Onana would fit at Emirates Stadium as Arteta wants the transfer of a new midfielder.

Manchester United also appreciate what he would bring to Old Trafford. But Everton still have a good chance of retaining Onana until, at least, the summer

Barcelona recently held talks with the Everton midfielder’s camp about a transfer

Reports by Foot Mercato also cited Manchester United’s interest in chasing Onana’s transfer from Everton recently. But it also noted that FC Barcelona have had talks with Onana’s camp over a move. Yet the Blaugrana cannot afford the Toffees’ €55m (£48m) price tag in January.

Barcelona wanted to see how Onana, who Frank Lampard said has ‘massive potential’ after his £33m transfer from LOSC Lille in August 2022, viewed a move to La Liga. Yet the Catalan giants and Manchester United may face frustration if Arsenal can afford the deal in January.

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