Joe Roberts

Sat 29 July 2023 10:10, UK

Crystal Palace may target Everton winger Demarai Gray or Leeds United star Crysencio Summerville if their pursuit of Flamengo’s Matheus Franca is knocked back, according to the Daily Mirror.

The newspaper reported in its print edition (29 July, pg 69) that if Palace receives another rejection from the Brazillian side for the 19-year-old, they may turn their attention to the English sides in their pursuit of a Wilfried Zaha replacement.

Flamengo had rejected Palace’s opening £17million bid, but the Eagles are keen to bolster their front line amid Chelsea’s and Manchester City’s interest in Michael Olise, who reportedly has a £35million release clause meaning their pursuit of Gray and Summerville could shift their focus.

Sell

Everton’s finances have hindered them this summer following their breach of Financial Fair Play regulations [The Guardian], meaning the Toffees will have to sell in order to improve their side while replying on cost-effective loans like Arnaut Danjuma.

However, the need to sell does not make everyone on sale, and Gray could prove to be an influential player for Sean Dyche’s side next season as they bid to avoid a relegation fight.

Gray is a wanted man, with Turkish side Besiktas reportedly locked in talks for the 27-year-old [Sabah], but Everton are asking for at least £15million for the Jamaican international [Sky Sports].

However, while the Toffees may find it tough to replace Gray with £15million due to his Premier League experience, his poor season at Goodison Park may see him have a fresh start at a new club.

He struggled for goals last season managing just four in the Premier League, averaging 0.07 per 90 (8th percentile) [FBRef]. While Everton’s attack was one of their weak points last season, Dyche may feel an attacking revamp is on the cards and if he can get near the £15million from Palace, they should sell.

But a lot may depend on that deal. Franca looks to be Palace’s top attacking priority and they will likely continue their pursuit of him until a deal is reached, and Summerville may be a more economical purchase if they can get a cut-price deal following Leeds’ relegation.

However, if Dyche can get Everton firing again and playing significantly better than last season, then Gray may reap the rewards and prove a valuable asset.

In other Everton news, Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has shared his view on Jordan Pickford’s goalkeeping ability.