Everton are keen to strengthen a number of positions ahead of the new season.
David Moyes has been in the market for a centre-forward following Armando Broja and Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s departures.
It looks as though Everton are closing in on the signing of Thierno Barry from Villarreal, so that’s one area of the pitch boxed off.
Attention has moved towards the midfield ranks as Genoa’s Morten Frendrup appears to be on Moyes’ radar.
Now, there is a fresh rumour emerging from the continent as Everton have officially made contact to sign a highly-rated midfielder.
Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz.
Photo by Tullio Puglia – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Moyes and his chiefs are pressing ahead to sign a midfielder, with Abdoulaye Doucoure and Orel Mangala leaving a big void.
Douglas Luiz has been linked to Everton in recent weeks, with it becoming apparent that Juventus are willing to sanction his sale.
The Brazil international only started three league games last term, so evidently he’s deemed surplus to requirements.
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Now, according to La Gazzetta Dello Sport (July 7, page 5), Everton have officially made contact with the Turin-based clubs over a potential transfer for Luiz.
It’s claimed that Manchester United and Fulham are also in talks.
Luiz would be a major coup for Everton
It wasn’t so long ago that Luiz was being touted as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League, and that’d probably remain the case should he return.
The former Aston Villa man hasn’t had the greatest time in Italy, but there’s no doubting his ability; he just needs the trust of his manager.
Moyes can certainly offer that, however, there could be a stumbling block in striking a deal, considering he’s earning £138,000-a-week, according to Capology.
Certainly one to watch, though.