Everton and West Ham United are leading the race for the signature of Club Brugge midfield sensation Raphael Onyedika.

According to Sacha Tavolieri, Everton and West Ham United are both keen on adding more quality to their midfield, and they have their eyes set on Raphael Onyedika. The Nigerian international has been doing wonders for Club Brugge, and both English clubs are in pole position to sign him.

Onyedika made a name for himself at FC Midtjylland before joining the Belgian outfit in the summer of 2022. The 24-year-old defensive midfielder has only gone from strength to strength, and he has established himself as a key figure in the team.

The Nigerian international was on fire for them last season. He was involved in a total of 52 matches and ended up contributing towards four goals. Meanwhile, Onyedika’s performances in the Champions League in particular attracted a lot of interest.

Premier League clubs to battle for Onyedika

While Raphael Onyedika still has two years left on his current deal, multiple clubs from across Europe are keen on signing him. Premier League clubs West Ham United and Everton are believed to be the front-runners for his signature.

Graham Potter wants more quality in the centre of the park. While the former Chelsea boss has three defensive midfielders in his squad, he is not pleased with their performances and feels signing Onyedika will help the club bounce back after a disappointing season last time out.

Meanwhile, David Moyes is also looking for more competition in midfield. With Orel Mangala set to return to his parent club and Idrissa Gueye’s contract running out, the Club Brugge midfielder could be just the perfect signing for them. His versatility could come in handy as he is equally effective in an advanced role.

Both English clubs are in pole position, but Tavolieri believes the Hammers are the ones who have the most concrete interest in Raphael Onyedika. They have already initiated talks as they look to strike a deal. While the Belgian outfit are ready to negotiate his departure, they are looking for a fee close to €30 million to let go of the 24-year-old.

Everton and West Ham United both have the financial means to meet Club Brugge’s €30 million asking price, but it remains to be seen whether they are prepared to match the demands of the Belgian outfit or attempt to negotiate a lower fee.