Everton want ‘shining’ Juventus defender Federico Gatti, £26.5million could seal deal
Everton are considering a move for Juventus defender Federico Gatti with the Serie A club braced for interest in the 24-year-old, according to Serie B news.
The Italian news outlet claim (8 April) that Gatti is valued at £26.5million and that West Ham United are also interested.
Gatti has been a “shining light” for Juventus of late and has recently been rewarded with a call-up to Roberto Mancini’s national side.
It’s believed Juventus view £26.5million as the standard trading price between Serie A and Premier League clubs.
Depth
With Yerry Mina set to leave Goodison Park in the summer, another central defender could well be required for Sean Dyche. Furthermore, beyond Michael Keane and James Tarkowski, the Toffees’ defensive options are fairly limited. Ben Godfrey endured a tough afternoon against Manchester United and was caught out of position a number of times.
Dyche teams are built on dependable defensive structure and strength in depth in the centre-back area will be essential moving forward. Gatti is at a good age and will likely improve further. He’s also been plying his trade at one of Europe’s biggest clubs, so he’s certainly not short of experience.
It’s certainly a big transfer fee but due to his age and potential to improve, this could well be a smart piece of business from the Goodison Park board, if they can get a deal over the line.
Let’s hope the days of signing players who are well past their best are now a thing of the past for Everton.