Why Everton want Ngal Ayel Mukau after Lille exit latest
Everton are keeping tabs on Lille talent Ngal Ayel Mukau.
The Toffees may have brought in Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough, but want further midfield reinforcements.
The former Boro star is still a highly anticipated addition after a stellar year in the Championship.
Other options are on the table as David Moyes looks to improve his squad throughout the summer, though.
That has now prompted links to the Lille man as the hunt for fresh faces continues at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Mukau is a figure of interest on Merseyside as eyes continue to land on the 21-year-old this summer.
Ngal Ayel Mukau added to transfer shortlist
The versatile midfielder is coming off the back of a debut World Cup with DR Congo.
Goodison News previously covered interest in Pape Gueye after his spell at the tournament with Senegal, but Mukau is now catching the eye.
He featured in all four games as his nation were ultimately dumped out by England in the round of 32.
That saw him attract suitors, which won't come as a surprise due to his versatility to play as a central midfielder or off the right.
Makau has now emerged as a target for Everton, as reported by Turkish outlet Ajansspor on Saturday.
The Toffees face stern competition for his signature as Galatasaray have added the Congolese star to their shortlist.
They are stepping up their efforts to sign a midfielder this summer, but won't find it easy to land the Lille man.
The Toffees are said to in the race alongside Premier League rivals Tottenham and Aston Villa.
Who is Everton target Mukau?
Mukau is a Belgian-born midfielder who has plenty of top-level experience at just 21 years old.
He has largely featured at the base of midfield for Lille, but has made 17 career appearances off the right.
The centre of the park feels more his game as he only has five senior goal involvements to his name.
That is only echoed given how strong he is at holding onto the ball, while having a sizable defensive contribution.
His finishing and end product may not be ideal, but that is indicative of a defensive midfielder.
With Idrissa Gueye on the way out, Makau could prove to be his replacement at 15 years younger.