Manchester United winger Anthony Elanga could move to Premier League rival Everton and Frank Lampard is believed to be a fan.
That’s according to The Athletic, who report that the Toffees are desperate to perk up their attacking options in the January transfer window.
Lampard’s side have scored just 11 goals in 15 league games this season, the joint second-worst tally in the division.
And with Everton scrambling for cash, they are expected to turn their attention to the loan market.
That would make Elanga an attractive proposition, with the young Swede starting just five Premier League games this season, three of them before Antony’s signing.
The Brazilian is Erik ten Hag’s undisputed first choice for the right flank, possessing the only natural left foot among United’s attackers, making him indispensable given the manager’s preference for reverse wingers.
Elanga has also seen his opportunities down the left flank diminished, partly due to the irruption of Alejandro Garnacho.
The Argentinian has surpassed Elanga in the pecking order, and if United sign a player like Cody Gakpo this winter, it’s hard to see where the Swedish international fits.
The academy graduate has failed to impress with Ten Hag this season, although at just 20 years old, time is on the player’s side.
A loan move could be a shrewd move for the spirited winger, as first-team football at Goodison Park could prevent stagnation in his development.
Everton have regularly used Demerai Gray and Dwight McNeil on the flanks this season, with Anthony Gordon also deployed on the front line.
Injuries to Dominic Calvert-Lewin and a slow start to Neil Maupay have left Lampard often looking for attackers this season, and Elanga could have a big role at Everton should a loan come through.
However, whether he would be in line for the regular squad when all of Everton’s aforementioned players are fit could be cause for concern.
United have a checkered record when it comes to loaning out players and would certainly benefit from caution in finding a suitable club for Elanga to continue his development.
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