Jose Mourinho once praised Raul Jimenez as Everton line up summer deal

Jose Mourinho had been a big fan of Raul Jimenez at Benfica, and he could join Everton this summer.

European football remains on the cards for Everton this season, and if that is achieved, it will only amplify the need for a new striker to arrive in the summer.

But regardless of the outcome of those ambitions, the Toffees will be looking to strengthen that area of the squad.

Thierno Barry has had a hand in some big moments this season, as has Beto, though neither have produced anywhere enar enough on a consistent basis to satisfy the concerns.

Jimenez could move to Everton to rectify that this summer, having been hailed by Mourinho in the past.

What has Jose Mourinho said about Raul Jimenez?

Jimenez has always had high praise wherever he has been playing, but for Mourinho's praise, you have to go back to his Benfica days.

The Mexican hit double figures for goals in three of his four campaigns in Portugal, though it was his first season there that saw him praised by Mourinho after he had scored 12 goals.

Mourinho said: "Fantastic. Raul Jimenez is having a good season. 

“He is not always in the starting eleven, but if Benfica are close to becoming champions it is in part thanks to his goals which have meant important points."

And that still holds value today with Jimenez scoring goals on a regular basis for Fulham years later.

Since his move to Craven Cottage in 2023, Jimenez has scored 31 goals for Fulham, including 10 this season.

Would Jimenez be a good addition for Everton?

Undoubtedly, yes.

Not only would he bring goals, but his all-around play is something that is often lacking when either Barry or Beto play.

That is demonstarted by the fact that he has won 42.3 per cent of his duels this season, which places him among the top 24.5 per cent of strikers in the Premier League.

And on a potential free transfer, it would be an absolute no-brainer for Everton to pursue a deal for Jimenez.