By Mark Smith

16th Aug, 2021 | 6:10pm

Rafa Benitez wants Lorenzo Insigne at Everton, faces serious competition

Rafa Benitez has identified Napoli attacker Lorenzo Insigne as a serious Everton target as he looks to strengthen his squad this month.

Ciro Venerato has shared a further update on the situation of the Italian legend, with numerous clubs queuing up for his signature.

Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid are also in the race, but a move for those two this month looks unlikely.

Everton appear to have the upper hand, with Insigne reportedly liking the links to both Merseyside and Benitez.

Venerato has shared the latest update on RAI radio, via Arena Napoli, at the start of this week, including his value.

“Value £25.5million the number 24 which, however, is released in a year,” he said.

“Marotta would offer less than half plus the card from Sanchez, already rejected by the Azzurri for the high salary.

“Insigne also likes Benitez’s Everton, Atletico Madrid interested in having him only in a year, but on a free transfer.”

Over to you, Marcel.

Marcel Brands has been handed the ball, and it is up to him what he does next with this information.

If Everton can somehow agree to a deal with Napoli, it looks as though Insigne would be more than happy to come to the Premier League.

There is little chance of FFP allowing us to spend £25.5million though and some sales will need to made in order for that to happen.

Unfortunately, no one appears close to the exit door with James Rodriguez probably our best chance of bringing Insigne to England.

This one looks unlikely, but we can dream, right?

In other Everton news, ‘Excellent’ – Alan Shearer blown away by one Toffees star v Southampton

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