Everton are ramping up their interest in Sevilla midfield colossus Steven Nzonzi and hope to make progress on the move over the next 48 hours, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper report that Sam Allardyce is pushing to complete his January business early, with him and director of football Steve Walsh keen to make headway on a deal for Nzonzi as soon as possible.
The Mail claim that Nzonzi, who stands at 6ft 5in, is interested in a move to Goodison Park and a reunion with former boss Allardyce, who brought him to England with Blackburn Rovers.
It is said that his arrival would trigger a departure in central midfield, with Mohamed Besic and Morgan Schneiderlin the most likely casualties.
Nzonzi had recently fallen out with boss Eduardo Berizzo, who has now been sacked, but the damage between player and club is said to be irreparable.
Good move for Everton?
Absolutely.
Nzonzi always impressed during his time in England with both Blackburn and Stoke, and earned a move to La Liga with Sevilla in 2015.
He has since developed into one of Europe’s most highly-rated midfield destroyers, and has earned his first two caps for the French national team this year.
Nzonzi would add some much-needed steel and size to Everton’s midfield, and his experience in Europe with Sevilla would be indispensable as Allardyce pushes for the Europa League places after January.
This is Futbol rating: 9/10
Likely to happen?
It looked nailed-on that Nzonzi would leave Sevilla, but with Berizzo now sacked, that is less certain.
While it is reported here that the damage is already done, there remains a chance that Nzonzi may stay at the Andalusian outfit.
However, a new positive for Toffees fans is the claim that Nzonzi is keen on a move to Goodison, which is the first indication of the player’s desires.
If he does leave Sevilla, then it is indeed looking likely that Everton will be the lucky recipients of his sought-after services.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10