Sofiane Hanni has been speaking to Belgian Sport/Foot this week, following his move from Anderlecht to Spartak Moscow.
The Algeria international was asked about various things relating to his new side, and used a teammate’s failed transfer to show how big a club Spartak are: “A few weeks ago, Spartak refused a €30m offer from Southampton for Quincy Promes, one of the best players in the team. I also heard Everton were interested.”
Everton had been linked with Promes previously, and if they continue with their interest then it’s worth noting some words from former Spartak striker Aleksandr Shirko.
Speaking to Russia’s Sport-Express, Shirko was asked why Promes hasn’t been so good in Europe: “I will not hang labels on Promes for now – whether he is overrated or not. His qualities are visible, there are abilities. Quincy plays when he feels confident. In important European matches he is lost, does not show his leadership qualities.
Shirko probably has a point, Everton or anyone paying over €30m for Promes based entirely on Russian league form would be a huge gamble.
With Spartak trailing Athletic Club Bilbao 3-1, they’ve travelled to the Basque region to try and put that right tonight. Everton should probably have someone watching, and seeing if this time Promes can show his domestic form on the European stage.
