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Everton told why Paul Mendy could be perfect signing amid Thierno Barry frustrations
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- Everton told why Paul Mendy could be perfect signing amid Thierno Barry frustrations
Cagliari striker Paul Mendy has been touted as an ideal January signing for Everton.
The Toffees' need for a new striker in the winter window is well documented.
A deadline-day move for Folarin Balogun collapsed last month, leaving Everton with just Thierno Barry to select up top.
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That is as a result of Beto also being allowed to depart late in the window, despite the lack of cover.
Money will again likely be tight early in the New Year due to the Friedkin Group looking for a way out.
That is not to say there is not bargains out there to be got, however, with Mendy one possible option.
Don Hutchison raves about Paul Mendy - could he suit Everton?
Barry again disappointed for Everton against Chelsea , as he missed a glorious chance in the first half before the visitors went on to score twice.
The Guinea-Bissau striker certainly has a knack of getting in good positions, which is always a good trait.
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But there is no doubt Everton could do with a different option up top, even if as a back-up to Barry.
Former Everton midfielder Don Hutchison has now put forward an outside-of-the-box suggestion.
Speaking to Roundtable , Hutchison said: "Paul Mendy at Cagliari caught my eye last season, and I watched him again against Juventus [last week].
"He's a Senegalese player who cost very little and looks an exciting prospect.
"He has a little of Victor Osimhen about him: long legs, athleticism, the ability to bring the ball down on his chest, lay it off and sprint into the box.
"He could be the sort of player Everton need - somebody to provide cover for Barry and compete for his place."
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Based on what Hutchison says, he would be an ideal addition for Everton.
However, it must be noted that just like Barry, he looks a little raw and does not score regularly.
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Hutchison regularly commentates on Serie A and therefore has an eye for a talent in the Italian top flight when he sees one.
As well as Mendy, he also suggested a couple of other names from that division.
The first is Atalanta defender Raoul Bellanova.
"He reminds me of Federico Valverde in the way he looks and runs: upright, tall and absolutely rapid," Hutchison said in the same interview.
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"He can play as a wing-back or right-back, has brilliant energy and is one of the quickest players in Serie A in that position."
Juventus' Pierre Kalulu is another defender he can recommend.
"He is underrated and versatile: he can play wing-back, right-back in a back four or as one of three centre-backs," Hutchison said.
Another right-back is certainly needed at Hill Dickinson Stadium, but right now it is a striker David Moyes needs more than anything.
Whether that is Mendy or someone else, it is vital a deal is struck for early in the New Year.
