Cristian Nikolaev transfer decision made amid Everton and Real Madrid interest
Lecce have beaten Everton and Real Madrid to the summer signing of Alcorcon’s teenage gem Cristian Nikolaev, according to Sport Mediaset.
The Italian source reported [9 June] that the Toffees were among a cluster of clubs including Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Juventus and Leeds United in the race to secure the 17-year-old’s signature.
Nikolaev will be plying his trade in Serie A next season despite Premier League and Champions League interest, having chosen Lecce after impressing for Alcorcon’s B team.
Everton miss out on exciting youngster in Cristian Nikolaev
Little is known about the 17-year-old centre-back who currently plays for Alcorcon’s B team, who finished in the La Liga 2 relegation zone this season.
However, when teams such as Madrid, Atletico and Juventus are supposedly keeping tabs on the teenager, the Toffees are clearly searching in the right areas for additions ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Sean Dyche has proven his ability to trust in youngsters at Goodison Park, with 21-year-old Jarrad Branthwaite becoming one of the first names on the teamsheet this season.
Due to his sensational performances in his breakout season, Manchester United are pushing to sign the defender this summer, which could leave Dyche without one of his star defenders.
Ben Godfrey has also been linked with a move away this summer, with AC Milan keeping an eye on his situation with the Merseyside club, having only made 13 league starts. [talkSPORT]
Nikolaev would have fit the sort of age and profile Everton need to focus on given the club’s current financial woes.
The excitement over Nikolaev will never get going, though, with it being confirmed that the 17-year-old has chosen a move to Lecce in Serie A as the next step in his very early career.
With the summer transfer window yet to officially open, the Toffees will have several chances to sign some young prospects even if Nikolaev if already a none starter.
In other Everton news, the club are set for a “huge boost” with a takeover announcement imminent at Goodison Park.
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