Everton have been given a boost in their pursuit of Marcos Rojo as he has been told he can leave Manchester United, according to the Sun.
The newspaper claim Toffees manager Marco Silva has set his sights on landing the Argentina international as he looks to sign a left-sided centre-back before the transfer window shuts.
The Sun report United manager Jose Mourinho is willing to offload £20million Rojo even though he signed a new contract last summer.
Good move for Everton?
Rojo is a fine player who is more than just an typical Argentine hard man who loves a tackle and an old fashioned ruck. He is also technically gifted, as he demonstrated with a brilliant volleyed goal at the World Cup over the summer. Proven in the Premier League after four years at United, he should not need too much of a settling-in period. Moreover, aged 28, he should be at the peak of his powers. Nevertheless, Rojo does not have a great appearance record, with a series of niggling injuries and disciplinary issues affecting his ability to string consecutive appearances together at United.
This Is Futbol rating 6/10
Likely to happen?
Given that Williams has been offloaded and Everton need a left-sided centre-back, this deal is highly possible. Rojo’s wages could be an issue, as statistics site Spotrac report he earns £110,000-a-week at Old Trafford. But, crucially, the player has been granted permission to find a new club. That could prove decisive as long as he wants to stay in the Premier League.
This Is Futbol rating 7/10