Everton have stolen a march on Arsenal in the race to sign Getafe centre-back Djené Dakonam, according to the Sun.
The newspaper claims that the Toffees have “moved ahead” of the Gunners in the fight for the 27-year-old’s signature as Unai Emery’s transfer budget is only £45million this summer and the Getafe ace is valued at £30million after an “outstanding” season in La Liga.
It is understood that Marco Silva has been given a “mega budget” to improve his squad before next season starts after leading his Everton side to an eighth-placed finish in the Premier League.
Good move for Everton?
Djené was superb for Getafe last season as they finished fifth in La Liga.
The Togo international made 38 appearances in all competitions for the Spanish club, who conceded less goals than Barcelona and Real Madrid in the league.
Everton could do with strengthening their defence this summer after Kurt Zouma’s loan ended, so Djené would be a great replacement.
He is at the peak of his career and snapping up someone who played so well last season is always a good idea.
The former Alcorcon defender would slot nicely into Silva’s defence alongside Michael Keane.
This is Futbol rating 8/10
Likely to happen?
Everton sure seem as though they are winning the race to sign Djené this summer, but it is a little surprising that more clubs aren’t being linked with the Togoan ace at this stage.
It has been a slow start to the summer transfer window so it might be some time before the Toffees get close to signing someone and by then, Djené may have been snapped up elsewhere.
This is Futbol rating 2/10