OPINION
Everton are reportedly in hot pursuit of Croatia star Ante Rebic after seeing him impress at the World Cup in Russia so far this summer.
The Mirror claims that the Toffees are taking a close look at the 24-year-old, who has recently joined Frankfurt on a permanent deal after the Bundesliga club triggered an option-to-buy clause in his loan deal from Fiorentina.
Although he has just moved clubs, it is understood that Frankfurt would be open to the idea of making a major profit on Rebic and are bracing themselves for offers this summer.
The report says that Frankfurt value him at £26million, but his performances at the World Cup could see their valuation exceed that sum, according to sporting director Bruno Hubner.
“Of course he has gained value through the German Cup and now value through the World Cup, he is now in focus for the big clubs,” Hubner said, as quoted by the Mirror.
Rebic was in good form for Frankfurt during his loan spell last season.
The versatile forward, who can play up front or on the wings, made 28 appearances in all competitions and scored nine goals in the process.
His best performance was definitely reserved for the German Cup final when he scored two goals as his side shocked Bayern Munich to win 3-1.
As Hubner said, Rebic is bound to thrust himself even more into the spotlight in Russia as Croatia look to push even further into the competition with a clash against Denmark in their first knockout game.
Marco Silva really must be looking to sign the Croat this summer, especially given the atrocious options that he currently has in attack.
Everton’s wingers showed little creativity last season and they definitely need improving on while the strikers at Goodison Park are simply nowhere near good enough.
Silva can turn Rebic into a household name if he signs him this summer.
Not only would he be arriving after a solid World Cup campaign and with a big fee, he would surely hit the ground running in the Premier League, especially when he would instantly become the best forward that the Toffees have.