Marvin Plattenhardt will have the opportunity to complete a £16million move to Everton once Germany are finished at this year’s World Cup, reports the Daily Star.
The newspaper claim that Plattenhardt, 26, is to be regarded as Leighton Baines’s replacement, but will only give the move the green light once his duties with Germany are up.
The Hertha Berlin left-back, who is regarded as a dead-ball specialist, is likely to be amongst Germany’s starting lineup when they commence their campaign on Sunday afternoon versus Mexico, so Toffees fans can get a glimpse of their potential new signing.
The Germany international’s agent, Herbert Briem, is reported to be conducting talks with Everton officials as soon as Plattenhardt returns from Russia, with the deadline set as to when a move might actually be completed.
Good move for Everton?
Plattenhardt is a promising young talent, and will represent a major upgrade to Baines, whose legs could be about to fail him.
The Germany international is a natural free-kick taker and can move the ball forward very fast on a counter attack, evidencing his versatility.
Although Everton possesses a couple of promising young defenders at the position, Plattenhardt will cement the place down and give Everton a better chance to win now.
This Is Futbol rating – 9/10.
Likely to happen?
The 26-year-old is not short of potential suitors, and an impressive display for Germany is only likely to increase his stock.
Another potentially detrimental factor could be Everton’s huge wage bill, which new boss Marco Silva is looking to reduce.
Everton will have to move fast to secure the Germany international, and must hope that they exit the World Cup as soon as possible to commence transfer talks.
This Is Futbol rating – 6/10.