Everton have identified a whole host of targets this summer transfer window.
David Moyes is eyeing Villarreal striker Thierno Barry, who is believed to have a £33m release clause in his contract.
Manchester City playmaker James McAtee has also been linked to Everton, with Moyes in the market for a creative player.
Pep Guardiola has left McAtee out of his Club World Cup squad, so there is plenty of time for Everton to negotiate a deal.
Moyes has also personally approved Everton to sign Fred and now that deal is gathering pace after the latest transfer development.
Fenerbahce and Brazil midfielder Fred.
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
Fred to Everton gathers real pace
Fred left Manchester United for Fenerbahce during the summer of 2023, and his reputation has increased dramatically.
The 32-year-old has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Super Lig, with his attacking output noticeably improving.
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Last season, Fred registered a commendable 13 goal involvements, including a first career hat-trick against Caykur Rizespor.
45 appearances
5 goals
8 assists
Such is why David Moyes is keen to land his signature, and now that deal has just taken a step closer, as according to Fotospor, Fenerbahce are looking for replacements.
It’s claimed that manager Jose Mourinho is eyeing Yves Bissouma and Frank Anguissa as his potential successors, so whether that indicates a move to Everton is close, only time will tell.
Fred’s price tag drops
It was previously reported that Everton would have to pay £15m to sign Fred, but now it’s being claimed that a £12.7m bid could be enough to strike an agreement.
Everton fans aren’t convinced by the Fred signing, but for around that fee, he could be a decent squad option.
Moyes’ midfield ranks are looking really light, following Orel Mangala and Abdoulaye Doucoure’s departures.
So if he is just joining as a back-up, then it’s a transfer that makes sense given his Premier League experience.