Everton lead race for Federico Gatti transfer as news emerges
Everton have rejoined the race to sign Juventus defender Federico Gatti after failing to sign the player last summer, according to Calcio Mercato.
The Italian news outlet reported [11 December] that the club have restated their interest in signing the Italian, battling other clubs for his signature.
It is understood that Nottingham Forest are also interested in the defender, who has been a consistent performer in Serie A, with the two clubs leading a busy race.
Looking ahead for replacements
Everton were said to be closing in on a deal for Gatti last summer but the transfer never materialised to anything, instead installing their trust in 21-year-old Jarrad Branthwaite.
The rising interest surrounding defensive ace Branthwaite is a concern for Everton as they push for Premier League safety. Gatti could be a decent replacement for the young prospect if he is to leave Goodison Park.
While Branthwaite would be a huge miss for the side on Merseyside, it may be an inevitable event during the upcoming transfer windows.
However, Gatti is no amateur, with three international caps for Italy and some experience at Champions League and Europa League level.
At international level, he could be the next Giorgio Chiellini or Leonardo Bonucci if given enough experience. And a move to the Premier League could take him one step closer to that comparison.
There is one small hitch though. The player may come at a high price, especially coming from the esteemed club of Juventus. While the sale of Branthwaite could help with that, Toffees fans would much rather keep their current player than see him transfer away and replaced by Gatti.
Everton and Sean Dyche are desperate for another centre-back though. Branthwaite and James Tarkowski are flying this season but with Michael Keane shunned to the bench and Ben Godfrey not deemed good enough, Gatti would be a much-needed addition to the team.
In other Everton news, Micah Richards has urged Gareth Southgate to call up Branthwaite after his “outstanding” performance against Chelsea