Everton made another big move as they brought in Arsenal winger Alex Iwobi on Transfer Deadline Day, just days ahead of their match with Crystal Palace on Saturday. Apparently the deal came down to just minutes before the deadline, but Marcel Brands pulled it off and Iwobi will now play for the Blues in what has been an incredible transfer window for the club. The signing was a five-year deal worth £34 million. The move was also a direct response for their failed efforts to bring Wilfried Zaha to the club.
Iwobi seemingly was not in the future plans for Arsenal after the club picked up Nicolas Pepe from Lille and that made him expendable. Iwobi can also play as an attacking midfielder as well, so he provides some versatility. In 35 matches played for Arsenal in league play in 2018/19, he scored three goals. Overall in his career at Arsenal, he played in 149 matches and scored 15 goals. He also has played for the Nigeria national team playing 36 matches and scoring six goals.
Iwobi should be expected to play out on the wing opposite of Richarlison and that creates more attacking options for Marco Silva. Whether he fits into Silva's scheme seamlessly is to be seen, but the Blues seem to like his skillset enough to bring him on board. The first few matches should give everyone an idea of how Iwobi will fit in, but he is certainly talented and experienced enough to make contributions on the pitch. He does provide depth and versatility and that is beneficial to Silva.
However, with a move like this, it's clear that Everton and Brands are dedicated to bringing some trophies to Goodison Park. With the amount of moves made this transfer window and the quality of players the club has been getting is incredible to see. Iwobi's transfer reflects that. That being said, we could see a player here who makes this team better.
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