Leeds United ‘giving him away’ as Rodrigo closes on Everton transfer as first Sean Dyche signing – Sky Sports pundit
We’re delighted to welcome former Everton striker Kevin Campbell as our exclusive columnist. Each week the former Toffees captain will be giving his views on the biggest talking points at Goodison Park…
It is a “no-brainer” for Everton to push through a deal to sign Leeds United forward Rodrigo because he is a “very good player” and they are “giving him away” for cheap, according to Kevin Campbell.
The Spanish international is reportedly available for just £3million thanks to a relegation release clause in his contract at Elland Road [COPE, 7 June], with the Toffees heavily linked to a move despite the presence of lucrative interest from Saudi Arabia.
Sky Sports’ Alan Myers believes he could now be the first man signed under Sean Dyche in the coming week [via Twitter, 7 July], and with the 32-year-old netting 15 times in all competitions last season despite the turmoil at Leeds Campbell is in no doubt that circumstances make it a perfect move for Everton.
Reacting to the news the Sky Sports pundit exclusively told Goodison News: “£3million, that’s a give away. They’re giving him away.
“So if Everton can entice him, Saudi’s paying through the nose at the moment, but if Everton could entice him to Goodison Park it’s a no-brainer.
“It’s so cheap. He’s a very good player and he can play anywhere along the front as well.
“Good player.”
He may be past his peak and took a while to adapt to the Premier League as Leeds’ record signing three seasons ago, but in Everton’s current position the chance to snap him up seems almost too good to be true.
Rodrigo has proven he can score goals in a struggling side, has the versatility to cover various positions, and is energetic in defending from the front.
He may not be the same player but could feasibly fulfil the role that Richarlison used to and should Dominic Calvert-Lewin stay fit could form a dangerous partnership with the England man.
Overcoming European interest may be easier than Saudi offers, but the Toffees are reportedly “hopeful” of doing just that [Football Transfers, 4 July].
He may prefer to stay in the Premier League to prolong his international career, so if Everton can get him for small money on a contract for a season or two it could be the ideal move to help navigate choppy waters for Dyche.
In other Everton news, the club are reportedly able to match the asking price for another forward target and offer his camp an “important” contract.