Everton advance for Zakaria El Ouahdi transfer as January chase intensifies
Everton are one of the Premier League teams monitoring Genk right-back Zakaria El Ouahdi in the winter transfer window.
The race for the 24-year-old is intensifying in January, with the Toffees, Crystal Palace and Benfica looking to sign him.
El Ouahdi has been linked with a move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium, but it remains to be seen whether the Blues will acquire his signature ahead of their rivals.
With David Moyes heavily relying on Jake O’Brien at right-back, it’s evident that the Merseyside outfit need reinforcements in that department, and the Morocco international may be on his way to L4 soon.
Everton and Crystal Palace proceed in negotiations for Zakaria El Ouahdi signing
Sources close to El Ouahdi have revealed that the Toffees and Palace are in advanced discussions over him.
According to Africafoot on 8 January, the right-back’s stock in the Premier League has been boosted after a remarkable season for Genk, scoring four goals and providing one assist in 14 league appearances.
It’s been reported that the Eagles are pushing for the Moroccan defender’s arrival, while the Hill Dickinson Stadium hierarchy are taking a more cautious approach in negotiations.
El Ouahdi is keen to play in the Premier League and is looking for a club that offers stability and an ambitious project.
Moyes expects a couple of loan signings at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, but the Merseyside outfit are expected to take market opportunities if they get them.
David Moyes on right track as Zakaria El Ouahdi ambitions emerge
Moyes is aiming for a European spot in the Premier League, with the Toffees four points behind fifth-place Brentford.
The Friedkin Group have undoubtedly changed expectations among Everton fans, and supporters in L4 are now dreaming of achieving something special at the end of the season.
El Ouahdi could potentially be attracted by the project at the Blues, and speaking to Africafoot, one source said, “The player wants to play for a club capable of aiming for European places.”
With squad depth a concern for Moyes in Merseyside, the right-back seems like the perfect addition for the Scottish manager midway through the season.