Winner named in Everton and Atalanta race to sign Almeria striker El Bilal Toure
Everton appear to have lost the race to Atalanta to sign Almeria striker El Bilal Toure this summer with a deal close, claims Gianluca Di Marzio.
The Sky Sports Italy journalist wrote on his website [24 July] that the two parties are expecting to reach an agreement in the "next few hours".
The Toffees made an attempt to bring the Mali international, 21, to England, but have failed in their efforts to sign him.
Tough luck
It was evident that the striker was going to choose a move to Atalanta as they can offer him European football.
Everton have a financial crunch as well so they may not have been able to match his salary demands.
Sean Dyche desperately needs a striker at the club and thus far, has not managed to sign anyone.
Bilal Toure would've been a great addition for the Toffees but they now have to look at other options.
They look like they're allocating a decent amount of money to sign a new striker but they now need to look at other options.
It remains to be seen if they rekindle an interest in Udinese striker Beto as he would fit the bill perfectly for Dyche.