What Everton believe about Tiago Gabriel as 'perfect' transfer wanted

Everton are eyeing Lecce defender Tiago Gabriel as a potential signing.

The winter window is just a couple of months away, and the Toffees will undoubtedly have begun their scouting.

David Moyes' squad lacks quite a few areas, although centre-back certainly isn't one of them.

However, when quality comes available on the market, and at the right price, that can be hard to ignore.

At just 21 years old, Gabriel would also represent a signing for the future rather than simply an immediate solution to Moyes' central defensive needs, if there is currently any.

And information has emerged on the Toffees' possible pursuit.

Where Everton stand in Tiago Gabriel pursuit

Everton are continuing to explore potential additions to their squad ahead of the January transfer window, with Moyes looking at options to strengthen his side.

The Toffees are keeping tabs on players across Europe, although they are far from alone in identifying those to place on their list.

According to 4-4-2, Everton have expressed interest in Gabriel but face plenty of competition for the 21-year-old.

Serie A sides AC Milan and AS Roma are in the mix for his signature, while Crystal Palace are also opposition.

Everton and the Eagles believe Gabriel would be "perfect" for the Premier League, with his profile suiting the style of football.

AC Milan have reportedly already begun looking to put a move in motion, with Gabriel speaking with him through intermediaries.

Lecce are not open to selling Gabriel this winter window, although it is not "impossible" if the Toffees decide to step up their pursuit.

How much is Tiago Gabriel worth?

If Everton are to dip into the market in January, they will be looking for quality as well as fair-priced deals.

The report shares that the Serie A side is looking for between £20.9million and £25.1m in order to sell.

In terms of fairness, that is about right for the Portuguese defender, with CIES Football Observatory's fair market value tool placing a similar estimated price on him.

Anything below that price will be immediately swatted away, with Lecce holding a hard negotiating stance.

Everton ultimately knows what it will take to bring the Portuguese man to L3, and now it is simply a waiting game to see if they act.

Especially with Jake O'Brien's future uncertain as well.