Everton target Keito Nakamura in action for Japan
Keito NakamuraImago

Everton now know the true cost of signing Keito Nakamura after Reims reject offer

Declan Carr

Senior Correspondent AUTHORITY Senior sports journalist with experience at Sports Mole and VAVEL; Masters graduate from Liverpool John Moores University. FOCUS Breaking news, long-form analysis, and club-level insight across the Breaking Media network. THE INSIGHT Declan utilises a network of club and industry contacts to deliver verified, high-speed reporting. He provides the depth behind the headlines — from breaking news to analytical deep-dives — to ensure fans get the full story as it happens.

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Everton now know what it could take to sign Keito Nakamura.

The Blues are understood to be interested in the Japan star after his exploits at the World Cup, as they look for wingers such as Jack Grealish.

The Reims star notched one goal and one assist as the Samurai Blue were knocked out by Brazil in the round of 16.

That was supposedly worth £21.5million, and would allow him to leave after the Red and Whites missed out on promotion to Ligue 1.

However, the Toffees have learned the true cost of a deal for the 29-cap international after new developments.

How much do Reims want for Keito Nakamura?

The Ligue 2 outfit are demanding £21.3m, according to a new report, but that does not include any additional bonuses.

Sebastian Denis claimed on Friday that they have rejected an offer of £15.3m for the winger from an unnamed club.

It states that Marseille, Besiktas and the Blues are all chasing the Japanese star.

It is understood that the former would have to "get creative" due to their financial difficulties.

Reims are believed to be in a strong position financially, which allows them to negotiate.

Former boss Will Still was glowing in his praise of his player, saying: “Keito is quick, sharp, and gets what’s expected of him. He can score remarkable goals, as seen in Lille, and he’s often amazing in training."

Everton target Keito Nakamura in action for Japan
Keito Nakamura: Meet Japan's next star who Everton want to sign

Why Everton should be in the mix for Nakamura

The Blues could pull off a masterstroke by signing Nakamura, so it may be worth paying a little extra than the initially expected figure, if that is what is needed.

He has a strong marketing presence in his home country, due to his work on his personal branding, and it would allow the Merseysiders to crack the Asian market.

That is something which they have struggled with, and would then increase their revenue, through new media avenues, sponsorships and shirt sales from the region, and other opportunities.

As well as having an impact on the pitch, he notched 14 goals and two assists last season, it would also be beneficial off it too.

The Friedkin Group are always looking to increase the money coming into the club, and a deal for Nakamura would be a big money-spinner.

That should have them at least in the race for the attacker, after finding out the real cost of his signature.

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