Everton make approach to sign Emerson Royal 'in the last few hours'

Everton have approached AC Milan "in the last few hours" to sign right-back Emerson Royal, according to Matteo Moretto.

The Italian journalist reported via X on Tuesday (21 January) that AC Milan are willing to listen to proposals in the winter transfer window and are currently negotiating directly with Super Lig outfit Galatasaray.

Everton are long-standing admirers of the 26-year-old, dating back as far as 2021 before his move to Tottenham via Barcelona.

David Moyes is eager to recruit a new right-back at Goodison Park after Nathan Patterson declared his intentions to secure a loan move this window in search of regular first team football [Daily Mail].

Everton want to sign Emerson Royal

With less than a fortnight remaining until the transfer window slams shut on 3 February, Kevin Thelwell must accelerate his plans at Goodison Park.

The sporting director let Ajax star Devyne Rensch slip through his fingers as the 21-year-old agreed to a £5 million deal with AS Roma [Fabrizio Romano].

Although the Blues are in a far better financial position under The Friedkin Group, there is still room for caution regarding acquisitions - the main priority is clearing the remaining debt from the Farhad Moshiri era.

Emerson enjoyed a relatively successful stint in the Premier League last time around and was a regular starter during this three-year spell at Spurs, but he lost his place to Pedro Porro.

However, he has continued to make a lasting impact in Europe at AC Milan, and it begs the question of why the Serie A giants would allow a player who has featured 17 times at the San Siro to depart midway through the campaign.

Regardless, Everton must adopt a proactive approach in the market, and Thelwell would undoubtedly restore the wavering faith in his ability to lead the transfer activity on Merseyside by securing a Premier League-proven talent.

In other Everton news, a Timothy Weah update has emerged at the Toffees.

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