Everton target Maksimovic prefers Italy stay – report
Everton target Nikola Maksimovic has been proposed to the club ahead of the summer transfer window, though the defender would prefer to remain in Italy.
Italian outlet Il Mattino first linked Everton with a move for the Serbian centre-back in the last transfer window, while journalist Nicolo Schira revealed late last month that the Blues were keen on the soon-to-be free agent.
Now FC Inter News claim that the Napoli defender’s agent Fali Ramadani has already made contact with several clubs in Italy and England, including Everton, to offer his client’s services.
It is said that he will leave Napoli when his contract expires in the summer.
FC Inter News claim that the 29-year old is being considered by Roma, Lazio and Inter Milan in Italy, however Roma must appoint a new manager first. Lazio are considering their options and Inter won’t pay Maksimovic’s wage demands.
The report also explains that Maksimovic would prefer to remain in Italy this summer where his family are settled, though he could be open to moving to the Premier League with both Everton and West Ham able to satisfy his financial requirements.
Maksimovic is the second Napoli defender to pique Everton’s interest this summer, alongside Kalidou Kouliably, with TuttoMercatoWeb suggesting that the Toffees could shift Yerry Mina to raise funds.
Not the long-term plan
Once described by Ancelotti as an ‘excellent defender‘, it is no wonder that the Italian wishes to reunite with his former player as he continues to shape his playing squad to reflect his style and ideals.
However, we’re not sure that signing Maksimovic makes the most sense for Everton.
At 29-years old, the Serbian is nearing the latter stages of his career where he will begin to lose his influence and his sell-on value will fully deplete. For the Blues’ long-term plans he just doesn’t seem like a viable candidate.
Maksimovic is the same age as Koulibaly though, and he’s also been linked. Though neither represents the best long-term strategy, Everton would find better immediate satisfaction with Koulibaly, who in the past has been named one of the best in the world in his position.
Should Maksimovic wish to remain in Italy Everton would be better off allowing him to do so, with Ancelotti hopefully turning his attention to younger potential recruits.
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