Everton have named Barcelona centre back Yerry Mina as their top defensive target as reports of a bid for Rennes’ Ramy Bensebaini are wide of the mark, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The Merseyside based newspaper claim on their website’s live blog (05/07, 08:18) that the Toffees have not, despite claims from outlets such as the Daily Star, tabled an offer in the region of £13million for the Algerian international and there there is currently no interest in his capture, in what is a definitive update on their transfer business.
It is instead Mina, who scored against England in Colombia’s defeat on penalties in the World Cup, who is said to be the top target at Goodison Park, with the Echo claiming that contact has been made between the two clubs over a potential deal.
Opinion
Of the pair touted by reports in recent days, Barcelona enforcer Mina certainly seems to be the more exciting signing for Everton and after he kept England at bay for much of their World Cup clash, not to mention netting that dramatic last minute equaliser, he will have many suitors looking at sealing a deal. Everton have been quick to get in and begin negotiating a move for his signing, but while Bensebaini might not be being hunted by the Toffees just yet, he could still be on their radar if they fail in securing the capture of Barcelona’s powerhouse. Marco Silva has been right to prioritise the defence this summer, with the ageing Phil Jagielka and Ashley Williams two of his options at the back, and some fresh blood might bring the best out of Michael Keane, who has failed to hit the expected heights after his move from Burnley last summer.