Everton are ready to take advantage of Watford’s decision not to move permanently for AC Milan attacker M’Baye Niang, according to a reliable journalist.
Sport Italia journalist Alfredo Pedulla reported on his personal website that speed machine Niang will return to his parent club, after failing to earn a permanent move to Watford despite having a £13.9million clause in his loan deal.
However, the 22-year-old could be set to remain in the Premier League with Everton, who are said to be ready to table an offer of the same fee that would have seen Watford sign Niang permanently.
During his loan spell with the Hornets, three-time France Under-21 international Niang scored twice and turned provider on two separate occasions during his 16 league and cup appearances this season.
Former Genoa loanee Niang, who has two years remaining on his contract, has plummeted down the pecking order at Milan with Vincenzo Montella preferring the likes of Suso, Giacomo Bonaventura and Keisuke Honda.
Known for his blistering pace, Niang also possesses and eye for goal and is able to glide past opponents in the final third in order to create chances for either himself or his teammates.
The Toffees currently have Gerard Deulofeu on loan with Milan, and manager Ronald Koeman will be hoping he can strike a second deal with the European giants if he does look to sign Niang.
Since moving to Milan in 2012 from Caen, Niang has managed just 12 goals in 77 league and cup appearances and can play anywhere across the front three.