Report: Everton learn valuation of Juventus defender Merih Demiral
Everton can reportedly sign Juventus centre-back Merih Demiral for £34million this summer.
Italian media outlet Tuttosport have reported that Juventus are keen on cashing in on Demiral as he desperately wants a move away from the club.
They believe that they can still get a high transfer fee and could part ways with him for less than the aforementioned amount if push comes to shove.
It’s also understood that Everton are joined by Roma and Atalanta in the race to sign him this summer.
Demiral wants regular playing time next season and he’s certain that he will not be getting any of those assurances at Juventus.
Marquee acquisition
Getting Demiral for whatever price will be a real signal of intent next season.
Spending that kind of money for a player with a very high ceiling will go a long way in silencing some of the dissent generated in supporters over the imminent arrival of Rafa Benitez.
The Turkish defender may have had a EUROs to forget, but that’s unlikely to diminish the influence he has on teams. The leadership and solidity he brings to back lines are some of the intangibles that make him a player who’s in such high demand this summer.
We’re still a long way from getting close to an agreement, but it’s refreshing that the club are having such ambitious targets despite not having a manager’s pull to smoothen things.
If Demiral believes that the Serie A is not the right place for his development, that instantly rules out the other two teams that are in contention.
He could be tempted by a higher salary and the lure of playing in the Premier League is enough to tempt players from all around Europe regardless of which team they’re at currently.
Lack of playing time was his biggest concern this past season and that’s not going to be a problem should we manage to bring him to Goodison Park.
In other Everton news, Club open to sale of ‘Incredible’ defender, Everton want to sign him – report
Be sure to follow Goodison News on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on Everton and more exclusive interviews with Kevin Campbell.