Everton Ready £17m Bid for Lille Midfielder Mukau After Green Light on Injury Front
Everton are preparing to launch a £17million bid for Lille midfielder Ngal’ayel Mukau after receiving the green light over the player’s previous injury concerns, according to sources close to the deal.
The 22-year-old, who has been one of the standout talents in Ligue 1 over the past 18 months, had seen his progress briefly halted by an ankle issue last season. However, following a detailed assessment by leading injury expert Dr Rajpal Brar, the Toffees are confident Mukau can hit the ground running at Goodison Park should the deal go through.
Mukau, who featured prominently in Lille’s European and domestic campaigns, has long been admired by recruitment teams across the Premier League, with Everton now emerging as frontrunners after weeks of quiet progress behind the scenes.
Sources indicate that the Merseyside club have been closely monitoring the player’s fitness situation and received reassurances from medical consultants that there is no long-term risk involved.
Dr Rajpal Brar, a well-known physical therapy and sports injury analyst, offered his verdict on the midfielder’s condition and potential durability.
“Mukau suffered a moderate lateral ankle sprain that kept him out for a short period, but there were no major complications,” Brar explained.
“He returned without significant setbacks and showed good strength and mobility in subsequent games. From a medical perspective, there’s no red flag that should put off a potential buyer — provided standard fitness tests are passed.”
That assurance has proved crucial in accelerating Everton’s plans, with the club now understood to be putting the final touches on a £17million offer to prise the player away from northern France. Lille, for their part, are bracing for bids but are not expected to stand in Mukau’s way if their valuation is met.
Mukau’s all-action style and press-resistant qualities make him an ideal candidate for Sean Dyche’s evolving midfield, especially with the expected departures of several fringe players this summer. The club is undergoing a squad refresh under the guidance of new sporting director Tim Williams, and Mukau fits the profile of younger, high-upside targets.
The Democratic Republic of Congo international is also seen as someone who can grow into a leadership role within the side, having already worn the captain’s armband for Lille in a handful of fixtures despite his age.
While personal terms are not expected to pose a problem, the next 72 hours could prove decisive as Everton aim to finalise their second major signing of the window. Mukau’s addition would send a strong signal of intent to supporters, especially amid growing optimism about the club’s new recruitment strategy.
Everton’s pursuit now hinges on whether Lille accept the offer and if a deal can be wrapped up before the team departs for their pre-season tour. With Mukau now medically cleared and contract discussions anticipated to move swiftly, all eyes are on Everton to deliver a statement signing.