Everton have made approach to sign Porto winger Otavio
Everton are looking to sign Porto attacking midfielder cum winger Otavio, according to a report from O Jogo.
The Portuguese newspaper (11 June, page 2) reports that the Toffees have made an approach in recent weeks to enquire about the player.
Porto are staying resolute with their asking price for the Portugal international, which they have set at around £51 million, his release clause.
The report adds that Porto are expecting proposals this summer, but they are not keen too keen to sell him.
There have been approaches from other “mid-table” Premier League clubs, but only initial contacts have been made so far.
Replacement for Richarlison?
Otavio has made his senior debut for Porto in 2016, and he has made over 235 appearances for the club, scoring 24 goals.
He has been a key player for Sergio Conceicao, and it will require a huge transfer fee to take him away from the club.
The Toffees boss, Frank Lampard, is looking to rebuild the squad, and quality players after Everton narrowly avoided relegation last season.
The club need to be smart in their transfer approach after years of poor recruits that have resulted in this mess they’re in today.
Richarlison is likely to leave the club this summer. The Brazilian was superb last season and helped the club avoid relegation, but he deserves to play at a top club.
The Toffees probably won’t stand in his way, especially if they receive a huge chunk of money from his sale.
The Merseyside club can reinvest that into the squad, but doubts remain whether Otavio would be a good replacement for the Brazilian.
In other Everton news, it would apparently take a massive offer for the club to hijack a deal for one midfield target who is set to move on loan.
Be sure to follow Goodison News on Facebook for 24/7 updates on Everton plus more exclusive interviews with Kevin Campbell.