Where Everton now stand in Federico Gatti transfer race as new update emerges

Federico Gatti has been linked with Everton for quite a few months now.

The Italian centre-back is surplus to requirements at Juventus, with the Serie A club open to his exit.

Additionally, Gatti is hoping to make a move elsewhere for guaranteed minutes to reclaim a spot in the Italian national side.

With Everton previously in for Gatti, they have once again been mentioned in relation to his future in Turin.

David Moyes' side do need defensive reinforcements, particularly with uncertainty over Jake O'Brien's primary role and Jarrad Branthwaite's injury issues.

A fresh update has now emerged on whether that new recruit could be in the form of Gatti.

Are Everton still in Federico Gatti race?

Everton supporters will be hoping that business starts to ramp up now.

Hayden Hackney and Christian Norgaard remain the only new faces at Finch Farm from last season, with plenty more positions needing upgrades.

While centre-back may not be a priority, it is a position that could use refreshment, particularly if O'Brien is seen as a right-back.

And when it comes to signing Gatti, Everton have made a move to sign him based on reports out of Italy.

But according to Tuttomercato, it appears that the Toffees may not in the battle to sign Gatti any longer.

While Juventus are hoping to land around £17million to sell the 28-year-old centre-back, the Italian is said to have already rejected approaches from Everton.

With the trail going cold over Everton's interest in Gatti throughout the summer, you would expect that to have arrived quite early in the window.

Gatti now has an offer from Marseille on the table, with a contract worth around £49,000 per week.

What Everton’s next move could be this summer

Of course, the right-back signing is the transfer that is most on the minds of Everton supporters, and truthfully, that should be the next incoming.

However, while the L3 outfit have remained patient in order to land the best possible deal at the right price, frustration has also been creeping in amongst the fanbase.

Moyes' side really need to secure a right-back ahead of the opening weekend of the Premier League season and there is not long to go.

Merlin Rohl has deputised on the right side of defence, and with Nathan Patterson unfavoured, neither are a long-term solution.

And Moyes will know that fine well.