Everton are plotting to snatch Newcastle United defender Jamaal Lascelles in a £30million swoop this summer, according to the Sun.
The newspaper report that the Toffees are hoping to make the most of the uncertainty over the future of manager Rafael Benitez at St James’ Park and take the 24-year-old to Goodison Park in a mega-money pounce under new boss Marco Silva.
Powerhouse centre back Lascelles, Newcastle’s captain, is a firm favourite on Tyneside with his no-nonsense attitude both on and off the field, and is said to be on the radar of Everton’s Merseyside rivals Liverpool, as well as England for a potential call up.
Good move for Everton?
The Toffees certainly need some fresh blood at the back, with Ashley Williams and Phil Jagielka both closing in on the twilight of their careers.
Michael Keane has not had the desired impact since joining from Burnley last summer meaning that the veteran duo have been playing more than expected, but as time catches up to them, new recruits are a must.
Lascelles has been one of the standout performers at Newcastle over the last two seasons, establishing himself as a very promising centre back with his technique, physicality and leadership qualities, and it comes as no surprise to see Premier League rivals sniffing around.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
This could all hinge on whether Rafa Benitez stays at Newcastle.
The Spaniard would be loathed to lose his captain if he does commit his long term future to the club but the longer that remains uncertain, the likelier Lascelles’ exit is.
Still, the Magpies will likely be looking at the inflated prices in the transfer window and deem £30million not enough for the 24-year-old, and this could be a saga which drags on all summer.
This is Futbol rating: 4/10