Everton want to sign more attackers amid push to close Youssef Chermiti transfer – Paul Joyce
Everton are not finished with their attacking transfer business this summer as they close on a deal to sign Youssef Chermiti, according to Paul Joyce.
The Toffees have been attempting in vain to add help at the striker position throughout the past two transfer windows, but after agreeing a fee following overnight talks with Sporting for 19-year-old Chermiti looking to be closing in on one.
The Portuguese forward has only scored three senior goals though and so Sean Dyche is not expected to be content with just him and loanee winger Arnaut Danjuma as his attacking reinforcements, but will continue to push for more before deadline day.
Times journalist Joyce reported via Twitter on Monday (31 July): “Everton looking to close deal for Sporting Lisbon centre forward Youssef Chermiti.
“The 19yo made his debut last season and scored three goals in 16 appearances, as per Fabrizio Romano.
“Everton still searching for other attacking reinforcements.”
Romano broke the news earlier on Monday that an agreement had been reached in principle between the sides for Chermiti.
No time to rest
Chermiti may well prove to be a revelation at Goodison Park, and after missing out on El Bilal Touré and Rodrigo already this summer on top of a barren January window it is impossible for Evertonians to get a bit excited over the prospect of a successful deal.
But a teenager with little senior experience can’t be expected to rescue the Toffees if Dominic Calvert-Lewin is again ruled out.
So further additions would be very welcome, even if it will be somewhat of a relief to at least get another option in at the position after selling Ellis Simms this summer.
A talented but raw youngster is unlikely to be a first-team regular from the off, but with the fee tipped to start at £12.8million rise over £17m depending on goals scored he must be part of the senior plans.
It would be a lot to spend on one for the future who disappears into the under-21s when there is not thought to be a plentiful transfer budget.
So, assuming the deal is closed in the coming days, Chermiti is likely expected to contribute at some point, but Dyche and the supporters would probably feel a lot more confident ahead of the new season if a more experienced option can be successfully secured in addition.
In other Everton news, the club have received a transfer approach over a forgotten man as interest ramps up in a player the Toffees want to sell.