Report – Everton ponder move for Lucas Vasquez, available for free in summer
Everton are one of four clubs interested in potentially signing Real Madrid winger Lucas Vasquez on a free transfer this summer, according to Spanish outlet Deportes Cuatro.
The 29-year old will see his current contract expire this summer, and although Madrid have offered him a new three-year extension on the same wages, Vasquez is said to have turned it down as he was left disappointed that he wasn’t offered a salary increase.
Vasquez has been a regular fixture in Madrid’s La Liga line-up this season, and he’s also shown his value as a versatile option, playing both on the right-wing and at right-back for the Merengues.
Due to Vasquez’s uncertain future, a number of clubs have begun to take interest in the Spain international, with Deportes Cuatro noting that Leeds United, Napoli and AC Milan join Everton in monitoring the forward’s situation.
The report specifically mentions that Carlo Ancelotti has given his seal of approval for Everton to make a move for Vasquez, should he decide to enter free agency this summer.
Strength in depth
Unlike James Rodriguez, Lucas Vasquez does not have a particularly strong connection to Carlo Ancelotti, with the Spaniard having not played a single game at the Santiago Bernabeu during the Italian’s tenure as Madrid boss.
However, Everton could hope that Vasquez might take a leaf out of James’ book by committing himself to joining a growing project on Merseyside.
Should the Toffees qualify for European football ahead of next season, not only will they need to increase their squad depth but also they’ll need an injection of quality and European experience, both of which Vasquez would bring.
However, with Vasquez turning 30 in July, the Blues could find that their resources are better spent on younger recruits, especially considering James [29] and Allan [30] are both on the senior side.
Everton need to strike the right balance this summer, but first and foremost they must ensure that European qualification is met, and then that the right quality can be brought in to improve the club’s continental competition potential.