Everton battle Newcastle United to sign Joao Pedro
Everton are desperate to land a striker before the end of the transfer window, and they have earmarked Joao Pedro of Watford as a potential option.
According to a report from 90 Min (23 August), Newcastle United remain in talks with Watford over a deal for the Brazilian forward, but a host of clubs including the Toffees have joined the race.
Watford have set an asking price of £35m for the player, and the Magpies are confident of sealing the deal.
The likes of Wolves, Leicester, Nottingham Forest and Leeds have been keeping tabs on the player, but it’s Everton who have made a contact with Watford over a potential move.
Next few days vital
The next few days are absolutely vital for the Toffees and their transfer dealings will have a big impact on their season.
The squad has shaped up nicely but Frank Lampard still needs to bolster his forward department. A striker is a necessity, and another quality attacking midfielder would be a handy addition, especially if Dele Alli leaves the club.
Anthony Gordon could play a big role here. The has told the club that he wants to leave and join Chelsea, and Everton are trying their best to get a deal of around £60m for him.
If he joins the Blues, Lampard need to act quickly and get at least two strikers with that. However, if Gordon stays put, the Toffees could struggle to match Newcastle’s offer for Pedro.
The Toffees are reportedly checking on other options as well. Ideally, Everton should take the money for Gordon and use it to good effect to bolster the squad.