Former Liverpool and Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy has been left puzzled by Everton's failure to sign Leeds United forward Rodrigo this summer. The Spaniard, who has a reported relegation release clause of just £3million, is said to be closing in on a move to Qatari side Al-Rayyan.
Last season's top goal scorer has been linked with a whole host of European clubs this summer, but looks set to shun any interest in order to move to the Middle East. Despite Leeds being relegated, the 32-year-old enjoyed his best return in front of goal last season, netting 13 times in the league to take his overall record to 28 strikes in 95 appearances.
That form is said to have attracted the likes of Everton to his services next season, but the former club-record signing has struggled for consistency in the English top flight. The Toffees, who survived on the final day of the season with a win over Bournemouth, at Leeds' expense, are understood to be keen on bolstering their attacking options ahead of next season.
Free agent Ashley Young is set to sign at Goodison Park, but the Blues are still in the midst of financial struggles off the field.
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Murphy told talkSPORT: "Well I recall he had a link with Everton, which I thought was perfect because he's a goalscorer. I mean, the times I saw him for Leeds - I know he had one injury last season - he was top goalscorer.
"He did have a couple of spells on the bench where they left him out for Bamford which was beyond my comprehension. The other thing, other than scoring goals, which is key as a forward especially when you play down the middle, his tenacity and workrate is phenomenal.
"Everton desperately need someone like him. Scores goals, up for it, physical, great left peg and if you can get him for £3million it's exactly what Everton need. He's obviously been offered a fortune to go over there."
