Marcelo Bielsa has been pictured arriving at Heathrow for talks with Everton as Farhad Moshiri continues attempts to persuade the former Leeds manager to succeed Frank Lampard.
Bielsa is the owner’s first choice but has doubts over whether to accept the challenge. He is believed to have reservations over a club that has sacked six permanent managers in just under seven years and the suitability of the squad to his methods, particularly when a relegation battle leaves little room for error or time to bed in his tactics.
Moshiri hopes to convince the Argentinian to take over a team who have lost eight and drawn two of their past 10 matches. Bielsa’s arrival in England, first reported by the Daily Mail, indicates a willingness to progress discussions.
Several other candidates are under consideration. Contact has been made with representatives of the former Burnley manager Sean Dyche, who would welcome the chance to relaunch his managerial career at Goodison Park.
Anthony Gordon missed another day of training on Thursday amid interest from Newcastle. The 21-year-old is believed to be keen on the move and his exit would release funds for Everton to make signings before Tuesday’s deadline.
Everton are determined to hold on to Amadou Onana despite Chelsea identifying the midfielder as an alternative to Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo. Onana has also been targeted by Arsenal but Everton signed the Belgian from Lille only last summer and do not want to sell.
Onana has been a rare positive for Everton, who need all the help they can get in their battle to avoid relegation. Chelsea have had bids turned away by Brighton for Caicedo and by Benfica for Fernández.
Chelsea are also in the market for cover for Reece James at right-back. However Lyon have publicly stated their determination to keep Malo Gusto. The 19-year-old wants to join Chelsea .
