Everton are hoping to add some exciting talents to their squad this summer, but they need to get a move on.
With their attack being freshened up with the addition of Thierno Barry, David Moyes can focus on other aspects of their squad.
Someone who can provide a creative spark is now in talks, as James McAtee is in discussions with Everton.
The Scotsman will want to focus on the midfield, with this being a key part of his style of play at the Toffees, with Moyes adapting a possession-based style at Everton.
Idrissa Gana Gueye’s new contract has come in handy because of this, but now his perfect partner is ready and waiting for Everton.
Benfica's Florentino Luis during Club World Cup game against Chelsea.
Photo by Marcio Machado/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Everton back in for Benfica’s Florentino Luis as discount ready
Gueye was arguably Moyes’ player of the season, as the 35-year-old still produces consistent performances week in, week out.
But what is lacking next to the Senegalese international is the perfect midfield partner, as Everton fans are unsure about James Garner.
Adding to this, Abdoulaye Doucoure’s absence will be known, so The Friedkin Group need to get to work quickly.
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According to A BOLA’s print edition (page 6, 8 July), the owners are doing exactly that as Everton, along with Burnley, are appearing as suitors for Benfica midfielder Florentino Luis.
This isn’t the first time the 25-year-old has cropped up on the Toffees’ radar, as Everton wanted Luis in 2024.
Sean Dyche had a £26m bid rejected due to Luis’ incredible £102m release clause, but now it appears Benfica are willing to abide by Everton’s proposal.
The Portuguese giants now want the £26m for Luis, as the Toffees can finally get a £76m discount for the exciting midfielder.
READ MORE: The Friedkin Group finally weigh up move for Everton target but it’s not what you think
Everton target Luis has been dubbed the ‘next N’Golo Kante’
Luis has spent his entire career in Lisbon with Benfica and has been a shining light for the past three seasons.
But now it appears as though both the club and the player think it’s time for a new challenge with his contract expiring in June 2027.
It seems like no one will pay the £102m clause, so the Portuguese side might see fit to cash in now, and Everton will happily oblige.
Luis was expected to replace Amadou Onana, but with that not happening last summer, Moyes can instead secure the deal this window.
According to The Mirror, Luis has drawn comparisons with Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante due to his battling style of play, and that’s clearly shown in the clips above.
Everton landing a £76m discount for the ‘next Kante’ could be something that is praised for years to come, as The Friedkins are beginning to move efficiently.