The speculation over Everton ’s summer plans continue, even if their transfer window action hasn’t even started yet.
Bluse boss Frank Lampard is juggling a situation where he may well need to sell before he can buy big, which is why he is currently largely being linked with moves for free agents in the transfer market. James Tarkowski, is his prime defensive target, with the defender available on a free contract when his Burnley deal expires on July 1.
With Lampard able to offload around £400,000 a week in wages - according to the Liverpool Echo - with Blues players whose contract or loan deals are up, he will comfortably be able to meet the England defender's wage demands. Elsewhere, there is another interesting link with a high quality, proven Premier League player who is available on a free this summer, as his short term contract is up.
And there have also been links with potential departures, a defender touted for a move - which would fit with Tarkowski’s potential arrival - by media in his own country. And there are also links with a cut price move for a Ligue 1 star who has been chased by a host of English clubs. Here we offer you a digest of all the latest Everton stories.
Everton plot Eriksen swoop
The Everton boss has made no secret of his desire to strengthen in midfield, with Fabian Delph likely to leave as his contract expires and both Allan and Andre Gomes out of favour. And according to Talksport he is interested in former Spurs and Inter Milan star Christian Eriksen, who could be available after completing a short term contract with Brentford.
The Denmark international spent time with the Bees as he returned from a serious heart condition which saw him collapse in the Euro 2020 finals, and has now proved his fitness beyond doubt. Everton, with Lampard’s influence, are said to be a strong possibility, and given he is a proven performer available on a free, it would make sense in the club’s current position.
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Mina tipped for exit
Yerry Mina has not had the happiest time at Goodison with injuries, and now media back in his native country are suggesting he may feel it is time to look for a fresh start. Colombia Detail Zero report that Mina is wanted by Marseille, who will play in next season’s Champions League, and are prepared to spend £20m on the big centre half.
Lampard admire’s Mina’s character, but has barely had him available since his arrival on Merseyside in February, and with the pursuit of Tarkowski progressing, he may feel it is time to cash in.
Everton face battle for Ligue 1 star
Another midfielder who has been linked in Lens defensive star Cheick Doucoure, with the Liverpool Echo suggesting there is strong interest from Lampard in the 22 year old. But according to the Mail Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira is a huge admirer and is closing in on a £15m deal for a player regarded as a rising star of the French league.
Patterson details tackle which cost him Premier League debut
Nathan Patterson was due to make his first Premier League start in April, following his £12m move from Rangers in January. But the day before his big moment, he snapped ankle ligaments in a block tackle in training with Dele Alli, and missed the rest of the season.
The Scotland international though, is not blaming Alli: “It was the last five minutes at the end of training and I was due to play the next day,” he said. “I had waited a long time for the opportunity.
"But these things happen in football. It was just unfortunate, a block tackle and I went over on the ankle and snapped ligaments. Dele came straight up to me after training and apologised but it wasn’t his fault."
