Michy Batshuayi wants a deadline-day permanent move to Everton ahead of his other suitors West Ham, according to a reliable journalist.
Evening Standard correspondent Simon Johnson reported in Twitter update on Thursday morning that the Chelsea striker’s “first choice” is to move to Goodison Park.
He explained that “time is running out” for a deal as Batshuayi is currently in Spain, where he is with loan club Valencia.
#Batshuayi's first choice is to join #efc on a permanent basis but Merseyside club have to raise the funds. #whufc have made an inquiry over a loan deal. The striker is in Spain, where he is still on loan at Valencia, so time is running out.
— Simon Johnson (@SJohnsonSport) January 31, 2019
OPINION
The noises coming out of Everton is that the club need to sell before they buy. Idrissa Gueye has been strongly linked with an exit, with Paris-Saint Germain his principal suitors, in a £30million-plus transfer, although the Merseysiders are said to be strongly resisting. If that deal does not go through, it is difficult to see Everton raising the cash to sign proven goalscorer Batshuayi. Certainly, he would be a fine capture. The Belgian has not nailed down a place at Chelsea, but his scoring record at the club is actually very decent – 19 goals from 53 matches. He has also scored prolifically on loan at Borussia Dortmund and at former clubs Marseille and Standard Liege. This should count for more, in Toffees eyes, than a poor spell at Valencia this season. Batshuayi is still only 25 and has the qualities and eye for goal that could make him a big hit at Goodison Park.