Everton have reportedly enquired over the possibility of agreeing a swap deal with Chelsea, which would see Anthony Gordon sold to the Blues.
Gordon has surprisingly emerged as Chelsea's top target as they look to improve the attacking options in Thomas Tuchel's squad. The 21-year-old has been a key player for Frank Lampard in the early stages of this season, starting all three of their Premier League games so far.
His performances have now attracted the eye of Tuchel, who is desperate to boost his options in forward areas. The decision to allow Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner to depart means Tuchel's squad is looking light in that position.
Everton had turned down a bid of £40million that Chelsea submitted for Gordon earlier this month. But the Blues have not been left downhearted by that rejection and are set to return for the 21-year-old.
The Mirror reported on Tuesday that Chelsea were ready to submit a mega-money bid of £50m, plus an extra £10m in add-ons, to buy Gordon. But according to talkSPORT, they may be able to get their hands on Gordon for less than that large fee, with the Toffees open to doing a swap deal instead.
It is stated that Everton have asked Chelsea to include either Conor Gallagher or Armando Broja as part of the move. The Toffees are interested in bringing either player in on loan after they starred at Crystal Palace and Southampton last season.
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Both players have featured in Chelsea's opening games under Tuchel, with Gallagher starting their defeat to Leeds in central midfield. Broja has found opportunities harder to come by, being forced to settle for two substitute appearances.
Gordon was left on the bench as a second-string Everton defeated League One Fleetwood Town in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday. Following the win, Lampard confirmed Chelsea had enquired about Gordon, but insisted that he would not be allowed to leave easily.
“He’s our player and the latest is the same as what I said after the game against Nottingham Forest – he’s our player and he’s got three years left on his contract. We’re aware of the interest of Chelsea as the world is now," the Everton boss said.
“This situation has to be right for Everton Football Club and for me as the coach of the team so we’re in the same position that we were a few days ago. It’s a considered decision from the club, which I’m fully involved in, which I should be.
“It’s a footballing and a financial decision, that’s going to be clear. But for me the priority has got to be the footballing decision because we’re in-season, we’re three games in. It kind of adds to the frustration not getting the points you deserve because maybe in another world you would do.
“It’s another complication for us but the reality is Anthony’s an Everton player and whilst that’s the case he’s got to get his head down and work and to be fair to him that’s what he’s done every day since I’ve been at the club, that’s why he’s been so impressive.”
