Everton transfer news as £25m+ update emerges on Real Betis attacker Assane Diao amid ‘unthinkable’ 777 Partners stance
Everton are interested in the services of Real Betis’ Spanish winger Assane Diao but will find a £25m-plus deal difficult to do, according to Muchodeporte.
The Spanish news outlet, shared (6 January) that the Spanish talent is liked by the Everton bosses at Goodison Park and should Diao end up leaving Betis this month, it will take an offer in the region of €30million (£25.8m) to sign him.
However, a stumbling block to any such additions has emerged with the £25m price tag of Diao “unthinkable” for Everton to match right now as they are currently immersed in the sale process from 777 Partners which is still awaiting Premier League approval.
Any considerable transfer additions at Goodison Park will have to wait until the summer of 2024 when there will be cash provided to seal such transfers.
Have to wait
Diao’s breakout year in 2023 and his status as a Spain U21 international underline his promising talent and prove that he’s performing at a first-team level.
The Spaniard’s skillset as an attacking force could significantly bolster the Toffees’ offensive capabilities, providing creativity and goal-scoring prowess from the wings that Sean Dyche so desperately needs.
Everton only have Dwight McNeil and loanees Jack Harrison and Arnaut Danjuma as their only senior out-and-out wingers right now which leaves Dyche desperately short in comparison to some of his relegation rivals.
If the Toffees can secure another this January it would indeed be a huge difference-maker but of course, Everton are under financial pressure right now and still have the 777 Partners takeover process languishing over their heads at Goodison.
Diao certainly looks an attractive proposition but spending upwards of £25m is a huge reach not just for Everton but even the biggest clubs on the land so Dyche and Kevin Thelwell will have to wait until the summer when further clarity may will surely be given in order to splash the cash and rebuild the squad where needed.
In other Everton news, a club shareholder has gone on record to slam a “terrible” development surrounding the Toffees and has made an admission on Sean Dyche.