Everton remain ‘hopeful’ of deal for Rodrigo transfer from Leeds United despite Saudi competition as contract length emerges
Everton remain “hopeful” of securing Rodrigo from Leeds United on a two-year deal despite competition from Saudi Arabia, Football Transfers reports.
Tutto Mercato Web had reported on 24 June that the Toffees were in “advanced” talks to sign the Spanish international, and rival interest from La Liga side Sevilla has since fallen away as they couldn’t match his wage demands [El Desmarque, 30 June].
But competition from multiple Saudi clubs has now arisen and they would be able to “offer a more lucrative contract”.
Sean Dyche badly needs forwards and the 32-year-old is thought to be able to leave Elland Road for as little as £3million this summer.
Football Transfers report that he is “almost certain to depart” and amid interest in a host of fellow Leeds players they are still feeling positive about the prospect of securing the man who scored 13 Premier League goals last season, despite the competition from the Middle East.
Needed
It currently feels like any club going up against the financial might of the Saudi Pro League is going to find it hard to win a transfer race.
So with the cash available at Goodison Park thought to be anything but plentiful in this window the hopes of Everton triumphing in that situation might seem remote.
But if there is enough there for the club to retain hope this far along then perhaps this one could get over the line and Rodrigo will stay in the Premier League.
How much money he is looking for from what is likely to be his last big move will be the key factor, as the Toffees will likely be able to offer better wages than some European sides but certainly not Saudi rivals.
The fit, despite his age, seems almost perfect for Dyche as it would mean a proven top flight scorer with experience of battling in a team that has deficiencies would come in.
And with Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s injury issues mirroring those of Patrick Bamford’s at Leeds the scenario looks almost ready-made.
Whether Rodrigo would interpret that is going from the frying pan straight into the fire, or whether he would see it as an opportunity to play regularly, is another important element.
But if the Toffees can prevail in this race it would immediately end fears that the summer window might follow the January one and see no attackers brought in.
In other Everton news, two offers have already been received as a current first-team forward looks odds-on to leave this summer.