Everton FC interested in Nigerian star

Premier League side Everton are reportedly weighing up a bid to sign Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi this month, according to reports in Italy.

Everton manager Roberto Martinez is keen on strengthening his squad this month as he looks to guide the Toffees to an improbable Champions League finish at the end of the campaign. The Spaniard has already brought-in Aiden McGeady to Goodison Park while striker Lacina Traore is also believed to be on his way to Merseyside and Martinez is now said to be keen on further bolstering his ranks by luring Onazi to the club.

The 21-year old midfielder has been gaining a reputation as one of the most promising young players plying their trade in Europe and is slowly attracting the interest from a host of clubs across Europe, especially from the Premier League.

Onazi had also expressed his desire to play in the English top-flight not long ago and a move for the midfielder to Goodison Park may well be on the cards.

The midfielder has been an integral part of the Lazio side this year, having made 17 appearances for the Capital club. However, with appointment of Eddy Reja as manager of the Roman side earlier this month, Onazi has made only one start so far. It is believed that a fee of around £8million will be enough to tempt Lazio to part with the young man.

Onazi is already considered a vital component for his National team, having won 18 caps for Nigeria despite being only 21-years-old and he had played a major part in the Super Eagles’ triumph in the African Cup of Nations last year.

A very quick and powerful midfielder, the young man has been likened to former Bolton Wanderers star and Nigeria legend Jay Jay Okocha and he would certainly be an exciting signing for Everton.