Everton are preparing for the potential departure of Amadou Onana, a key player in their midfield. To fill his big shoes, we've compiled a list of top candidates who could step in and continue the dynamic and robust style of play Onana has brought to the team.

Here are the best replacements, analysed by me

1. Anton Stach - Hoffenheim

Starting off our list is Anton Stach, the towering 194cm midfielder from Hoffenheim. Stach has just completed his fourth Bundesliga season and is renowned for his ball-winning prowess and aerial efficiency, making him a carbon copy of Onana. His stats speak volumes: 2.54 ball interceptions per 90 minutes, the highest in Europe's top five leagues.

Stach excels in reading the game and progressing the ball, averaging 7.9 long passes and 3.84 carries per game. Valued at around £15 million, Everton would need to flex their financial muscles to secure him.

🔍 Anton Stach is the only midfielder in the Top 5 Leagues to rank in the 94+ percentile for both defensive actions and duel win rate

📊 vs Bundesliga midfielders :
◉ Defensive actions - 1st
◉ Interceptions - 1st
◉ Interceptions (PAdj) - 1st
◉ Aerial duels won % - 2nd
◉… https://t.co/PgoUAbGKmj pic.twitter.com/7ANniiVYPy

— DataMB (@DataMB_) July 19, 2024

2. Ramiz Zerrouki - Feyenoord

Next up is Ramiz Zerrouki, the Algerian midfielder who recently joined Feyenoord from Twente and won the Eredivisie in his first season. Despite playing only 46% of the available minutes, Zerrouki has shown his versatility and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively.

His experience in building up play and progressing the ball would make him a valuable addition to Everton's midfield. With a market value of £9 million, Zerrouki could be a smart investment.

Ramiz Zerrouki VS Genk.

Une progression dans le placement , des prises de risques et surtout une personnnalité sur le terrain. pic.twitter.com/5LFMjcv8Hq

— ⵣ • 🎥 (@ArobaseMercu) July 13, 2024

3. Sander Berge - Burnley

Sander Berge is another strong candidate, currently playing for Burnley. Although Burnley got relegated, Berge's Premier League and Championship experience makes him a familiar face in English football.

At 26, he's not the youngest option, but his defensive capabilities and ball progression skills are comparable to Onana's. Berge's passing accuracy and ability to carry the ball forward would fit well into Sean Dyche's system. However, his price tag might be higher due to Burnley's financial situation.

Sander Berge Skills pic.twitter.com/6O9ASV3ejZ

— Yasin (@fenerlols) July 19, 2024

4. Samu Costa - Mallorca

If Everton is looking for a defensive powerhouse, Samu Costa from Mallorca could be the answer. The 23-year-old Portuguese midfielder excels in recoveries, tackles, and aerial duels but offers little in terms of offensive play.

Costa would be ideal in a high-pressing system, partnering with a possession-minded player like James Garner. His defensive strength could be a perfect fit for Dyche's tactics. Costa's valuation is reasonable, making him an affordable option, and as seen in this tweet, he might be the most brexit baller Spain have

Samu Costa contra un cuarta división inglesapic.twitter.com/DdKhq6ywoW

— Fuchi 👹 (@Fuchib0la) July 21, 2024

5. Amir Richardson - Reims

Last but not least, Amir Richardson from Reims is an interesting young option. The 22-year-old French-Moroccan midfielder played 1492 minutes in his debut Ligue 1 season, showcasing his versatility as both a '6' and an '8'. Richardson combines technical quality with defensive solidity, averaging 6.45 carries and contributing significantly in tackles and interceptions.

Standing at 6 feet 6 inches, he has the physical presence needed in the Premier League, though he needs to improve his aerial duel success. Valued at under £20 million, Richardson could be a future star for Everton.

Amir Richardson vs Olympique Lyon

💫🇲🇦 pic.twitter.com/VS467w7qKh

— 𝗪𝗔𝗬𝗭 🔎🇲🇦 (@ArobaseAH2) March 31, 2024

Conclusion

Everton has several promising options to replace Amadou Onana, each bringing a unique set of skills to the table. Whether they opt for the defensive solidity of Samu Costa, the versatility of Ramiz Zerrouki, the ball-winning ability of Anton Stach, the experience of Sander Berge, or the potential of Amir Richardson, the Toffees have a wealth of talent to choose from. The key will be finding the right fit for Sean Dyche's tactical setup and the club's long-term ambitions.