Everton ready to submit ‘official bid’ to sign Jelert after £7.5m deal
Everton are preparing to submit an “official offer” to Galatasaray for full-back Elias Jelert, according to Tavkim.
The Turkish news outlet reported via its website (2 January) that the Turkish Super Lig outfit are bracing for a January bid from the Blues for the 21-year-old, who is eager to play in the Premier League.
Daily Mail reporter Tom Collomosse tipped the Toffees to move for Jelert on 16 October, despite only joining Galatasaray in a £7.5million move from FC Copenhagen.
Galatasaray will look to recoup the £7.5m spent in the summer to sanction a January transfer as Sean Dyche’s transfer plans at Goodison Park begin to take shape.
Everton will move to sign Elias Jelert
Despite Everton boasting a phenomenal defensive record, conceding one goal in the clashes against Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City, the defence remains a cause for concern.
Seamus Coleman has struggled with injury issues throughout the season, with 39-year-old Ashley Young deputising at right-back in his absence.
Furthermore, Nathan Patterson, the only senior option under 30, is eager to pursue a loan move away from Goodison Park this month in search of regular first team football [Daily Mail].
It has been a problem position for Dyche in the past few seasons, and the Blues backline is crying out for fresh legs ahead of another potential relegation battle this year.
Jelert would be an astute signing – at 21, the Danish international already boasts Champions League and Europa League experience on his CV and has played a pivotal role in helping Galatasaray extend an eight-point gap to lead the Super Lig.
And while he has overcome a slow start in Turkey to establish himself in the first team fold, he would welcome an approach from Goodison Park to play in the Premier League – with Galatasaray only looking to recoup their initial investment, this deal is a no-brainer.
In other Everton news, Chris Sutton is talking nonsense with his Blues prediction against Bournemouth.
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