Everton ‘may’ try to hijack Brighton’s deal for the Bundesliga player and Newcastle have been rejected.
Everton ‘may’ have tried to hijack Brighton’s deal with Bundesliga star Newcastle which has already been rejected in the race, according to a report.
Everton are making summer transfer plans for David Moyes
The Toffees transfer window stops well before it opens.
David Moyes has been tasked with rebuilding in the summer with the Friedkin Group expected to back him with a significant budget, and the priorities are becoming clear.
A new striker sits at the top of the list, amid rumors of interest in the likes of Atletico Madrid’s Alexander Sorloth.
Beto and Thierno Barry have managed to net 12 goals between them this season – a return considered below par given the nearly £60m spent on the pair, and Moyes is understood to be looking for more firecrackers next term.
Elsewhere, Everton are reportedly growing in confidence over a permanent deal for Jack Grealish, who has joined on loan from Man City.
John Stones, who is out of contract at City in the summer, is also being watched, but Moyes is believed to be hesitant to sign him, even on a free transfer, due to his injury record.
Everton have given Liverpool’s “most important” target agents, he is ready to leave
The Toffees are one of the few suitors.
Into that busy picture comes a new name, and this one involves a transfer battle that Everton will have to force their way into.
Everton are planning to hijack Brighton’s transfer bid for Said El Mala
According to German newspaper Sport BILD, via Sport Witness, Everton are among a group of Premier League clubs who are considered to be ‘potential’ in the race for FC Köln striker Said El Mala.
The 19-year-old has become one of the Bundesliga’s most sought-after talents, with Bayern boss Vincent Kompany recently praising El Mala for his “high pace”.
Brighton are currently leading the way – although their pursuit is stalled over a significant goal difference.
Brighton have put an offer of £34m, including add-ons, on the table, but Köln are holding firm at the £43m minimum and are in no rush to back down.
The German club have tied El Mala, who has scored 10 goals and four assists in all competitions this season, to a contract until 2030 with no release clause, giving them full control of negotiations.
Newcastle also tried to open negotiations with the player’s camp but were rejected, his family shows that he prefers Brighton.
El Mala’s mother, Sabrina, who now represents him, has made it clear to Köln that she is open to other clubs, although Brighton remains the preferred option.
That situation, combined with Brighton’s inability to close the gap on the asking price, opened up an opportunity for Moyes’ side.
For Everton, Fulham, Brentford and Chelsea, who are also willing, the calculation is straightforward.
The tussle between Brighton and Köln has left the door open, and the feeling from those close to the situation is that other bids could materialize, possibly away from the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Whether Everton can match their £43m asking price will depend on how their summer budget is organised, but the interest is clearly real, and the situation is one we’re taking a closer look at.
Everton plan blockbuster £60m move to sign Crystal Palace star with Parish open to sale
The Toffees are looking to sign a statement.
