Report: Everton chase Josh King, Anthony Gordon could be offered on loan in swap deal
Everton are engaged in a transfer battle for Bournemouth attacker Josh King, according to The Athletic.
The report suggests Southampton and Fulham are also both keen on the 29-year-old.
It is believed that the Toffees are targetting King as a replacement for Cenk Tosun, who joined Besiktas on loan on Sunday.
To complete a deal Everton may first have to offload high-earners like Bernard in order to comply with financial fair plays.
The Athletic also suggests that Anthony Gordon could be offered on loan to Bournemouth as part of the deal, with the Cherries said to be fans of the midfielder.
More than one positive
King has not played a lot of football this season but he could be a useful short-term solution for Carlo Ancelotti.
Against Newcastle on Saturday we looked flat-footed, and lacked the energy up-front to break down a stubborn side.
That is becoming a recurring theme, with matches against West Ham and Sheffield United highlighting are lack of attacking nous.
King’s pace could be an effective weapon, particularly from the bench if he is to act as Richarlison’s understudy.
In recent games opponents have kept a close eye on James Rodriguez and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, so it is little surprise our goals have dried up.
On Saturday the front four managed just three key passes between them (WhoScored), while Gylfi Sigurdsoon managed zero.
A new forward could breathe fresh life into the attack, and add competition for places that will keep first-choice regulars on their toes.
We need a forward who will make runs in behind and stretch defences – King could provide that.
Getting Gordon out on loan could also do him the world of good.
He has impressed on occasion this season, particularly in the FA Cup, but he needs regular game time to improve.
Bournemouth play a passing game and are doing well in the Championship so are a suitable team for the youngster to join.
This would be a positive deal and we are hoping it gets finalised prior to the window closing.
In other Everton news, ‘No chance’ – Romano shares update on Everton’s reported Perisic hunt.