Everton to go for McAtee as Douglas Luiz concern emerges – Exclusive
This article includes exclusive comment from former Everton scout Bryan King.
Everton have been chasing the signing of Douglas Luiz from Juventus for several weeks now.
The former Aston Villa man has fallen badly out of favour with the Old Lady, and there are now several clubs queuing up to try and offer him a return to the Premier League.
Luiz had previously decided to put a potential move to Everton on hold, as he sought to assess any other possible options that were becoming available to him.
However, he has seemingly now forced the issue after missing Juventus training on Thursday (24 July), which opens the door for the Merseysiders to wade back in and try and conclude a deal once again.
Everton could sign McAtee instead amid Luiz concerns
James McAtee is another player who Everton have shown an interest in signing this summer, and they are seemingly prepared to battle Nottingham Forest and West Ham for his signature.
The Manchester City youngster could be allowed to leave for a fee in the region of £35million ahead of the upcoming campaign, and that has understandably caught the attention of several Premier League outfits.
It is currently unclear whether David Moyes’ side would be able to afford to add both playmakers or whether they will ultimately have to decide between the two.
Ex-Goodison scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Goodison News – believes that Luiz’s prior decision to stall a move to Merseyside should be all the evidence the Toffees need to prioritise signing McAtee instead.
“I’d go for McAtee,” King said.
“When a player starts messing around and saying he wants to wait for a better offer, which is essentially what Luiz is saying, I’m afraid I’d go and get McAtee instead.
“If Luiz can’t make his mind up, knowing that a Premier League club have been in for him, I wouldn’t want a player like that at my football club.”
McAtee would be a hugely exciting signing for Everton
McAtee would certainly be a promising addition for Everton, despite the fact that he doesn’t have the proven track record in the Premier League that Luiz does.
| McAtee | Luiz | |
| Apps | 48 | 175 |
| Goals | 6 | 20 |
| Assists | 3 | 18 |
The 22-year-old is five years younger than the Brazilian, has ample room to continue to grow as a player, and has already proven himself to be a capable operator in the top flight.
The City youngster showcased his talents once again as part of England U21’s Euros triumph this summer, and although he wouldn’t come cheaply for a player of his age, he would be an exciting signing for Moyes and Co.
With Luiz’s previous stance hinting at a possible lack of commitment, it would be no surprise to see the Toffees ramp up their pursuit of McAtee instead.
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