Journalist delivers Everton blow in move for Burnley winger Maxwel Cornet
Everton have been dealt a blow in their move for Burnley winger Maxwel Cornet with the Ivorian preferring a move to a club playing European football.
It was understood that Everton were keen on reuniting Cornet with his former Burnley teammate Dwight McNeil at Goodison Park this summer.
The Daily Mail had suggested in its print edition [23 July, pg. 111] that Everton offered a £20million proposal to Burnley for Cornet.
However, former BBC journalist Fraser Fletcher has reported (via Twitter, 28 July) that some clubs are finding it hard to structure a move for the 25-year-old, with the Burnley man intent on a move to a side playing European football.
The news most likely puts West Ham United at the front of the queue of the Premier League sides chasing Cornet, with the Hammers featuring in the UEFA Conference League in the 2022/23 campaign.
With the recent addition of former Wolves left-back Ruben Vinagre, Frank Lampard has potentially turned his attention to other areas of his squad that needs strengthening.
Cornet would’ve been a versatile and good signing for Lampard with his ability to play a number of positions always a positive.
However, with Vinagre and McNeil joining the Toffees, the Everton boss surely has to focus on forward areas as the new season approaches.
A new face up front is a must after the departure of Richarlison to Tottenham earlier on in the summer.
Another central defender would also be a good option for Lampard to call upon after Jarrad Branthwaite’s loan exit to PSV Eindhoven.