Everton are interested in signing Girona centre-back Juanpe Ramirez, according to AS.
The Spanish publication says that the Toffees have been tracking the 28-year-old for a year, but are yet to submit a formal bid.
AS adds, however, that Girona – who were relegated from La Liga last season – are not confident of keeping Ramierez and expect a firm inquiry to come in, with Everton said to be willing to spend £6.1m for his services.
The Spanish side reportedly recognise that the player is capable of playing in one of Europe’s top-flight leagues, and would prefer to cash in ahead of a promotion push next season than fight to keep him.
Good move for Everton?
Everton have a good selection of centre-backs at the moment and so don’t need Ramirez, but that could all change of course. Phil Jagielka and Kurt Zouma’s futures at Everton are not certain, so if the pair go, they will need to sign another defender. If they do depart, Ramirez may not be a bad option. The report claims that Girona are consigned to defeat over keeping a player who is worthy of top-flight football in Europe, and if they can get Ramirez for the £6.1m claimed in the report, it would be a good move. Even if Zouma and Jagielka do stay, £6.1m is not a significant outlay and he would provide decent backup.
This is Futbol rating 4/10
Likely to happen?
Potentially. It all depends on where the likes of Jagielka and Zouma end up this summer. If both of these players do end up staying on Merseyside, there is little reason for Everton to push for him.
This is Futbol rating 3/10