Everton news round-up: Hackney hijack as £38m transfer update drops
Everton are looking to step up their activity in the transfer window in the next few weeks.
David Moyes’ side have so far had a dismal preseason, and it is clear that the Blues still need vast improvements if they are to improve on last season’s finish.
They have already signed Carlos Alcaraz, Thierno Barry and Mark Travers, but they could do with adding further depth to a depleted squad.
Here, Goodison News shares the latest Blues updates from 31 July.
This article includes exclusive comments from former Everton scout Bryan King.
Moyes could get a likely regular in Ndidi for just £9million
Leicester are in a financial dispute, which could see them sell some of their players for below the asking price in the coming weeks.
Following their relegation to the second tier, Ndidi has been in demand, and his release clause is understood to be just £9million.
Ex-Goodison scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Goodison News – believes that Ndidi presents a great opportunity for Moyes to get a new regular for his team.
“He’s got a lot of Premier League experience,” King said.
“And how many players can you pick up with that level of experience for just £9m?
“He must be of interest. Moyes is trying to strengthen the squad, and there are positions at Everton that need covering.
“I would imagine he’s (Ndidi) being told that if the Everton move is there for him, he’s certainly going to be in a position to play regular football again, as he did at Leicester.”
Hayden Hackney not hot on sealing Ipswich Town transfer
Hayden Hackney is another player who has been in demand this summer.
Multiple Premier League clubs have shown interest in the youngster, but it is Championship club Ipswich Town who are the most advanced.
| Progressive passes | 433 (Most in Europe) |
| Passes into final third | 356 (Second most in Europe) |
However, according to Give Me Sport (31 July), the Englishman may snub the chance to join Ipswich this summer, despite a £20million bid being accepted.
He reportedly is keen on the idea of moving to Tottenham and will delay a move to the Tractor Boys for a potential move to the top flight. This could open the door for Everton to hijack the move.
Assane Diao exit on the cards in this transfer window
Everton are reportedly in hot pursuit of Assane Diao.
The 19-year-old joined Como from Real Betis in the January transfer window and has continued to show promise.
According to Sport (31 July), the Toffees are willing to meet the Serie A outfit’s demands to sign the Senegal international.
Moyes’ side face competition from Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest, who had an offer rejected for the Senegalese international.
Everton reportedly also tabled a £38.7million bid for Diao, though that was below the £64.6million asking price that Como are wanting.
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