OPINION
Everton might have failed to sign Espanyol striker Borja Iglesias in January but must reignite their interest in the Spanish forward in the summer after his admission about a move to England.
The switch is said to have failed with the striker not ready for the move – as reported by Marca – but in a report from the same Spanish publication, Iglesias admitted he was attracted to the thought of the Premier League.
Speaking to the Ao Contraataque show on Radio Galega, as quoted by Marca, he said: “[I am] attracted [by playing in England, but right now, I have no] intention [of leaving Espanyol].”
Iglesias has 16 goals and three assists in the La Liga this season in Espanyol’s push for European football. The 26-year-old has been in scintillating form for years in Spain for Celta Vigo B and Real Zaragoza.
Marco Silva has been in desperate need of a striker ever since arriving – Cenk Tosun and Dominic Calvert-Lewin leaving plenty to be desired – and Iglesias would be the perfect candidate to fill the number nine role for the Toffees.
His capability to make runs in behind defences would be perfect for Everton’s style and Gylfi Sigurdsson and Andre Gomes could thrive with a striker willing to do the hard miles against opposition defences.
The ability to run in behind is all good but without the finishing touch it means nothing. Iglesias has proved that as well as pace, he possesses great flair and finishing ability which could benefit a side who struggle at the best of times to finish games and opponents off.
With a reported £24million (€28million) release clause in his contract, he would be a big money signing but would be the difference between mid table mediocrity and a place in the Europa League once again for Everton.
Borja Iglesias has to be Marco Silva’s number one target come the summer window.