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Midtjylland to Merseyside: Future Everton stars?

Following an active summer transfer window, the regeneration project that is in full swing at Everton seeks to continue this January.

After making several ambitious signings through the likes of Thierno Barry, Tyler Dibling and more, the club have made their plans clear by targeting up-and-coming talent across Europe.

One club that has been on the Toffees’ radar is FC Midtjylland of Denmark, who have shone on the domestic and European stage this season. Scouts from Everton have visited the Danish outfit eight times this season, according to Oliver Otte Okstrøm.

With Ulvene currently sitting second in both the Danish Superliga and the Europa League, their array of talent has shone brightly, and here are some of their star men.

Franculino Dju

At 21 years old, Franculino Dju has spearheaded the Midtjylland front line and has been prolific in front of goal.

The Guinea-Bissau international and teammate of Beto has been linked with Everton, as well as other clubs around Europe, making him one of his side's most valuable assets.

His form has been scintillating this season. He has managed 22 goals and assists in 22 matches in all competitions, and with form like his, Dju will have many teams keep close tabs on him. That return includes 16 in just 17 league games.

Thierno Barry and Beto are currently in competition with each other, but have combined for just two Premier League goals this season. Dju would offer an alternative and signing a player of his profile would be an ambitious move from the Toffees. However, any potential move would likely wait until the summer, with the in-demand forward sidelined until March after undergoing minor surgery this week.

Aral Şimşir

Initially starting his career at HB Køge, the Danish-Turkish international has played for Midtjylland from U15 level, and has risen through the ranks since.

He is a technically gifted winger who plays on the left for his team, and while he isn’t particularly gifted with regard to pace, the 23-year-old makes up for this through his close-quarter dribbling, making his play style similar to Jack Grealish.

The winger has been Midtjylland’s chief creator this season and has racked up 14 assists in all competitions. Akin to Grealish, he has drawn the most fouls for his side, with 38.

Should Everton fail to sign their star loanee from Manchester City, Şimşir could prove to be an ideal replacement.

Lee Han-beom

Lee Han-beom has been a regular feature in the Midtjylland defence this season, with his side managing eight clean sheets in all competitions.

The South Korean international made the move to Denmark from FC Seoul in 2023 and has only recently managed to build consistent playing time.

He is known for his confidence on the ball and takes a very modern approach to his role as a centre back, with his passing being a strong point of his game.

Out of all Midtjylland players to have attempted at least 200 passes this season, the 23-year-old has registered the highest pass accuracy in the team, 84%.

As James Tarkowski and Michael Keane start to reach the closing period of their careers, and with Jarrad Branthwaite showing struggles to maintain match fitness, a youthful centre back such as Han-beom could be a crucial addition to this Everton side.

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