Lucien Agoume set to return to Sevilla from Inter Milan
Lucien Agoume's much-anticipated return to Sevilla from Inter Milan is reportedly on the brink of completion, with final details expected to be settled within the next couple of days.
"Everything is going well. We hope to finalise the deal in one or two days. It's almost done, and we're in discussions. Obviously, he's happy to return to Sevilla; he felt very comfortable there," stated Agoume's agent Djibrill Niang, leaving Inter Milan's offices on Thursday afternoon.
According to a report by MARCA, the general terms for the Franco-Cameroonian midfielders move back to Sevilla were set days ago. Sevilla have agreed to pay €4 million for 50% of Agoume's transfer rights, with an option to acquire an additional 40% next summer for another €4 million.
This agreement makes Agoume the sixth signing for Sevilla this season, with half of these acquisitions aimed at strengthening the midfield.
Sevilla's sporting director, Victor Orta, and head coach Garcia Pimienta have prioritised bolstering the midfield, where they believe the team's play needs to evolve under new management. They are focused on adding physicality and technical skill, with Agoume, Saul, and Sambi Lokonga embodying these attributes.
This trio is expected to feature regularly in Sevilla's central midfield, with the intriguing question of Djibril Sow's role in the new setup. Sow has already made an impression by scoring a goal in pre-season.
At the start of the summer, Sevilla had only three midfielders: Sow, Nemanja Gudelj (who has a proposal from Saudi Arabia), and Joan Jordan (considered surplus to requirements).
The departures of Boubakary Soumare, Oliver Torres, Hannibal Mejbri and initially Agoume left a significant gap in the squad. Agoume's return is a critical piece in addressing this issue. If Gudelj leaves, Sevilla may need to delve into the transfer market again, despite Garcia Pimienta's inclination to give young players more opportunities.
Sevilla's midfield revamp signifies a comprehensive strategy shift for a position that has historically troubled the club's managers. The addition of players like Agoume marks a concerted effort to build a robust and dynamic midfield, essential for their aspirations this season.