Everton target Aarons is ‘keen’ on Merseyside switch this summer
Norwich defender Max Aarons is interested in becoming an Everton player this summer, with the Blues having identified him as a right-back option.
The Athletic reported in March that Aarons had made his way onto a shortlist as Everton eyed candidates to succeed Seamus Coleman as the club’s long-term right-back.
Now The Times claim that not only are the Toffees indeed interested, but the 21-year old ‘is keen’ on switching East Anglia for Merseyside, despite Norwich’s imminent promotion.
Norwich are set to demand £30million in order to sanction Aarons sale, and as things stand that could be Everton’s primary stumbling block.
The Times claim that the Toffees are not keen on paying that much to land their target and would prefer to haggle down the price, but it remains to be seen whether Norwich would be open to that line of negotiation.
Aarons has been an integral player for Daniel Farke’s side this season, playing every minute of the 40 Championship games he has been apart of, missing just a single league game while he was playing for England Under-21s against Croatia.
Smart acquisition
It has become evident over the course of the season that right-back is an area Everton need to prioritise strengthening in the summer.
Seamus Coleman, though still excellent on his day, is nearing the end of his career and soon will no longer be a viable long-term option.
Mason Holgate meanwhile has also played in that role this season, though his defensive struggles in an unfamiliar position have been evident for all to see. He’s a natural centre-back and so shouldn’t be considered in a wide role.
Aarons, described as “outstanding” by Norwich boss Farke, could be both a long-term and an immediate improvement on the options currently at Goodison Park.
Aarons has attracted the interest of Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Manchester United in the past, indicating his current ability and potential, and Everton making a move for a player regarded so highly would represent a smart move this summer.
Should Everton strike an agreement with Norwich that sees Aarons move to Merseyside it would be a strong start to the club’s expected summer spending.
In other Everton news, Martin Tyler and Alan Smith slammed a “desperate” Blues player in the draw with Brighton.
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