Everton can take advantage of Levante's financial struggles amid Karl Etta Eyong interest
Everton are in the market for a striker in the summer window, and Karl Etta Eyong has been a name mentioned on their shortlist.
Thierno Barry has struggled to adapt properly to Premier League football this season, hitting just eight Premier League goals.
However, his goals total is the least of Everton's worries, with his general level of performances lacking what is required.
Another centre-forward is simply a must heading into next season, and transfer reports seem to show that the ownership agrees.
Ahead of Everton's summer window, they have been linked with numerous names, but the situation of Etta Eyong may pique more interest now.
How can Everton exploit Levante's FFP problems?
Etta Eyong is one of the names Everton are considering ahead of the summer transfer window, with links emerging earlier in the season.
The Cameroonian only recently joined Levante, but the Spanish club had looked to ship him out to CSKA Moscow. The player was not willing to relocate to Russia.
| Karl Etta Eyong profile | Detail |
| Age | 22 |
| Nationality | Cameroon |
| Position | Striker |
| Height | 5'11" |
| Foot | Right |
That failure to secure a fee for the striker back in the winter may prove costly as reports begin to emerge of financial complications.
According to Spanish outlet SER Deportivos Valen, Levante are entering tricky territory when it comes to their finances and financial fair play compliance.
The report shares: "Levante is forced to make a major sale to improve its struggling financial fair play situation, or it will be unable to assemble a competitive squad."
The Toffees could certainly use that to their advantage if they wish to enter negotiations for Etta Eyong.
Levante would have little power in talks, with the Blues knowing that they are desperate for funds to arrive to build their squad for next season.
However, it is stated that La Liga are considering letting fellow forward Carlos Espi leave instead. The Spaniard outscored Etta Eyong, so they may be inclined to accept Everton's terms if it means they keep the 20-year-old.
How has Karl Etta Eyong performed this season?
Etta Eyong has been in and out of the Levante starting lineup, which is not ideal for a striker looking to gain momentum.
The Cameroonian has played 30 times this campaign, starting in just 18. He ended the season with seven goals and four assists, according to Sofascore.
The 11-goal contribution total is higher than both Beto's (10) and Barry's (8) tallies this season, with all three sharing similar minutes played over the course of the campaign.
Overall, for a decent fee, it would not be a terrible signing for the Merseyside outfit.