Atletico Madrid to rival Everton for Juventus defender Demiral
La Liga giants Atletico Madrid could be set to rival for Everton for the signature of Juventus defender Merih Demiral this summer, according to CalcioMercato.
The Toffees are believed to be keen on the Turkey international, with CalcioMercato reporting in another story on Wednesday that the club are preparing a sizeable offer for the defender.
Everton currently have four centre-back options in Michael Keane, Mason Holgate, Ben Godfrey and Yerry Mina, however the latter has been linked with a move away from Goodison Park at the end of the season.
CalcioMercato now report that while Everton are preparing their opening offer for Demiral, who the report also describes as ‘on sale’, Atletico are also weighing up making a move.
The Spanish club are said to be willing to include Alvaro Morata as part of a deal if it will help them land their man, with the Spain international having previous played for Juventus.
Atletico could hold an advantage over Everton as they can offer the defender Champions League football, while Carlo Ancelotti’s side haven’t yet secured qualification to Europe.
Stocked options
Every story linking Everton with a move for Demiral ultimately hinges on what the club plan on doing regarding the options currently at their disposal.
If Yerry Mina is to leave, then possibly the Turkey international could be considered an option, but until speculation concerning the Colombian begins to pick up it is hard to get excited about Demiral’s prospective arrival.
With four centre-backs to choose from Ancelotti simply isn’t going to waste the funds at his disposal to increase an already stocked position.
That said there has been plenty of speculation linking the club with the defender, so there very well might be some truth to Everton’s interest, but then it remains to be seen what the club will do with the players already in the squad.
Likened to former Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic and described as a “natural leader“, Demiral clearly has talent that Everton could take advantage of.
Quite where he fits in right now though is anyone’s guess.
In other Everton news, Report: Everton demand club-record fee for ‘Phenomenal’ player this summer.
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