By Elliott Cuff

2nd May, 2021 | 8:30am

View: Everton should push for Coutinho to achieve Europe ambition

Everton have suffered from a lack of creativity among their midfield options this season, with James Rodriguez standing out as the rare exception.

Admittedly Gylfi Sigurdsson has quietly turned in some impressive goal involvement figures, with six goals and four assists in the Premier League, however he isn’t a preferred starting choice when everyone is passed fit.

Andre Gomes was chose to line up alongside Abdoulaye Doucoure and Allan at the beginning of the season, with the Portuguese midfielder registering just a single league assist.

James, having primarily played on the right for Everton this season, has earned plaudits through the six goals and five assists that he has achieved in just 22 league appearances.

However the Blues are still lacking significant creative impetus through the centre, although a recent report reveals that the club are attempting to change that.

Marca claim that Everton are keen on bringing Barcelona playmaker and former Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho back to Merseyside this summer in a deal worth £35million.

Coutinho hasn’t yet made an appearance for Barca in 2021 after sustaining a meniscus injury in December, yet Everton are said to be interested.

Nearing 29-years old and presumably on a high wage at Barcelona, Coutinho could represent the type of player Everton don’t want this summer, with Marcel Brands prioritising younger players who possess sell-on value.

However, should Coutinho desire a return to the Premier League, the Brazilian could prove to be just the player that the club need to propel them into the Champions League spots next season.

Coutinho might be a former Red and he might be nearing the twilight stage of his career, but he undeniably possesses technical talent that few Everton players (except for James) possess.

Jurgen Klopp named Coutinho a “genius” during his time at Anfield, with his superior ability always on display for Liverpool before his £142million switch to Barcelona.

In an ideal world, Everton would reach the upper echelon of European contest by signing talented unknowns who can grow and develop at Goodison Park, however the Blues first need someone who can put them on the map.

James can certainly do that, but if Coutinho were to join the club as well they’d be able to launch two-pronged creative assault on the top four.

Put aside his price tag and his salary expectations – Coutinho could be the signing that could move Everton into the next bracket above, and because of that they should push for a move this summer.

In other Everton news, View: Ancelotti to give 29y/o ace full Blues PL debut – 3 things to look for in clash v Villa.

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