Everton are in hot pursuit of Lorient midfielder Alexis Claude-Maurice, according to football.london.
The news outlet claims that Arsenal and West Ham also have a “strong interest” in the 21-year-old, who scored 14 goals and supplied four assists in 36 appearances for Ligue 2 side Lorient last season.
The Metro has previously reported that the France Under-20 international would cost £9million for anyone who wants to sign him this summer.
Good move for Everton?
Claude-Maurice seems like a decent young player who would be well worth his £9million price-tag if he manages to continue his development in the Premier League.
The Lorient ace can play on the left-hand side of the midfield or as an attacking midfielder in a central role, so he certainly has the versatility that youngsters need to make it in England.
However Everton already do have a few options to play on the left wing and they need right-sided players in that area of the pitch more than anything.
This is Futbol rating 6/10
Likely to happen?
Everton will have a fight on their hands if they want to sign Claude-Maurice because Arsenal is always an attractive club to join for young French players due to the success that players previously making the switch over the Channel have had in North London.
West Ham also offer an option to live in London, so Everton would probably have to offer more money it they wanted to sign the 21-year-old.
This is Futbol rating 2/10