Everton target Valere Germain could unleash best of James Rodriguez
Everton are reportedly interested in signing Marseille forward Valere Germain and the 30-year-old could have a positive impact on James Rodriguez if he arrives.
According to L’Equipe, Everton have made an enquiry about the striker, whose contract expires at the end of the season.
AC Milan have done likewise, while Genoa and Sampdoria have gone one further by opening negotiations with Germain.
The report also states interest from Rennes and Bordeaux, so it seems Germain will not be short of options come the summer.
Everton should hold the most appeal, however.
We can offer Germain the Premier League and possible European football, too, while potentially offering him the highest wage.
Carlo Ancelotti is a big draw and Germain should also be keen to reunite with James Rodriguez – the pair had a successful spell at Monaco in 2013/14.
It was one of the most productive seasons Rodriguez has had, scoring nine goals and assisting 13.
The Colombia international earned a move to Real Madrid off the back of that campaign and a strong showing in the 2014 World Cup.
Germain was a big influence that year, scoring five and producing three assists himself.
The Frenchman has always been a creator rather than a natural goalscorer, though he does have 94 career goals to boast of through spells at Marseille, Monaco and Nice.
Per WhoScored, the Frenchman managed one key pass per game while playing with Rodriguez at Monaco, helping the Everton star to his impressive goal tally.
Germain’s arrival could allow Richarlison to move more centrally, a switch that could also help Rodriguez.
The Toffees duo have combined for four goals this term [Transfermarkt] – that total could be higher too if not for injuries and Richarlison often playing out wide.
Whenever Rodriguez is performing to his potential Everton have done well this season.
Unleashing the best he has to offer has to be Ancelotti’s main focus, and bringing in Germain could help him achieve that.
In other Everton news, Ancelotti has provided a key injury update on Toffees pair after the Palace draw.
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