Everton are interested in signing Inter Milan midfielder Joao Mario who is available for around £14million, according to Tutto Mercato Web.
Joao Mario is up for grabs in the summer and alongside Everton, Monaco have also expressed in an interest in the player.
The Portugal international signed for Inter Milan for £36 million in 2016 but has failed to make a serious impact for the Italian giants.
The 26-year-old spent half of a season in the Premier League on loan at West Ham last term, making 13 league appearances for the Hammers. Joao Mario has 43 caps for his country.
Everton are chasing midfield recruits and will be evaluating their options with Andre Gomes returning to Barcelona.
Good move for Everton?
Everton will need to consider their options with Andre Gomes returning to Barcelona. There’s no doubt that Marco Silva will want to reunite with Gomes but with Joao Mario being available at a cut-price, the deal may be a cost-effective one. Joao Mario clearly has quality, he has 43 Portugal appearances to his name and showed glimpses of promise during his spell with West Ham. At 26, Joao Mario still has his best years ahead of him and could prove to be a shrewd piece of business for the Toffees.
This Is Futbol rating 6/10
Is it likely?
One thing is for sure, Everton will be bringing in a centre midfielder this summer. Joao Mario is a solid option to consider and could turn out to be a bargain. Andre Gomes is attracting suitors from all over Europe and a deal may be difficult to complete, Joao Mario would be a reasonable replacement with a good amount of experience to offer.
This Is Futbol rating 5/10