Everton reignite interest in Jonathan Ikone
Everton are interested in signing Lille winger Jonathan Ikone, according to reports from Calciomercato.
There’s very little information in the report, and it is not clear whether the Toffees are aiming to sign him this January or next summer.
The report only mentions that West Ham are interested, while AC Milan are also keen to sign him.
The interest in Ikone doesn’t come as a surprise. Last year, Carlo Ancelotti also targeted the French winger, but his monstrous £60m price tag [TeamTalk] meant the Toffees pulled themselves out of the race.
However, it seems Everton have rekindled their interest in the winger who has a contract at the French club till 2023. The 23-year-old could be available at a reasonable price, either in January or next summer.
Creativity
Ikone has managed two goals this season, including a Champions League strike against Sevilla this week.
He is not a prolific scorer by any means but has previously shown his creative prowess. This season, he is yet to register an assist though.
Signing a creative midfielder should be a priority for Everton, especially after the departure of James Rodriguez. Alex Iwobi has only impressed in flashes, and despite adding Andros Townsend and Demarai Gray, another quality attacking midfielder cum winger is required.
Rafa Benitez operated on a tight transfer budget during the summer, but the Spaniard will be handed a decent transfer kitty in January, provided he lasts that long.
The Athletic claim that Benitez is looking to bolster the central midfield and the centre-back areas, and it will be interesting to see whether they make any formal move for him.
In other Everton news, a Toffees ace is set to be assessed ahead of the Tottenham clash after a major Monday blow.