How Rafael Leao can speed up Everton's deal for Baris Alper Yilmaz
Everton's attempts to sign Galatasaray's Baris Alper Yilmaz could be accelerated by Rafael Leao.
The Blues are understood to have had a £35million offer rejected by the Turkish club, as they are seeking a figure closer to £42m.
David Moyes is keen to add attacking talent to his side, and the 26-year-old would be a quality addition.
He notched 19 goals and assists in the Super Lig last season, and if he could repeat that in England, it would be a brilliant return.
However, his future at the Istanbul-based outfit could be directly linked to the Portugal ace.
Leao has made it clear that he wants to leave AC Milan, and his destination could affect the Merseysiders and their transfer plans.
Why could Rafael Leao help Everton to sign Baris Alper Yilmaz?
Leao is a target for the Turkish outfit, and they are believed to be in talks over a potential transfer.
Turkish journalist Dogukan Yildirim believes that the deal for Yilmaz could speed up if that happens, with the player already agreeing personal terms.
Speaking exclusively to Goodison News, he said: "There is no new update at the moment.
"However, Galatasaray has reached an agreement with Leao.
"If they also reach an agreement with Milan, Baris Alper's departure is expected to speed up."
How would Yilmaz adapt to the English game?
Yildrim has already revealed why Yilmaz would have a chance of succeeding in the English game.
He believes that his physical attributes give him every opportunity to adapt to the top-flight if he makes the move.
There was concern raised about his technical level, but that can be improved on the training pitch, so it should not be as much of a worry.
He told Goodison News: "If this transfer happens, I think Baris Alper Yilmaz would adapt well to the physical side of the Premier League.
"In fact, he could even make the difference in some games, in the Turkish Super Lig, he is known for his incredible physical strength, winning duels, and explosive power, he works very hard, puts defenders under pressure, and loves making runs behind the defensive line.
"However, his football intelligence and technical ability are not at the same level as his athleticism, he is far from being an elite technical player, he still has weaknesses in decision-making, passing, finishing, and reading the game."
Moyes needs an edge to help his side qualify for the European places, and the 38-cap international may prove to be the answer.
He would certainly be a more experienced option than Tyrique George and Tyler Dibling, so it may be worth the game, and has the potential be a real game changer to the L3 team.
Whether it happens remains to be seen, but Leao's potential transfer to the Lions would increase the likelihood that it does.