Everton scouts were sent out on Thursday night to watch Franculino Dju after what they were told ahead of the January transfer window.
David Moyes is heading into the winter market with a big issue in his side struggling to find the back of the net.
It has been a problem which has plagued Everton for a number of years now, with the addition of Thierno Barry not yet reaping the rewards.
Everton News understands that, in January, Everton will be looking to sign another striker to add support for Beto and Barry.
The Friedkins have backed Moyes financially in the market since they landed on Merseyside, but more is going to be needed in January.
Speaking to Everton News, transfer correspondent Graeme Bailey has lifted the lid on Everton’s interest in Franculino ahead of the window opening.
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Photo by BO AMSTRUP/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Images
Everton scouts watched Franculino Dju score against Celtic
Two weeks ago, Everton News reported that both Everton and West Ham had been quoted £40m for Franculino by FC Midtjylland.
The young striker is in red hot form, and Everton got to witness that again on Thursday night in Europa League action.
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Everton News can confirm that Everton scouts were one of many clubs in attendance for Celtic’s trip to Denmark on Thursday, with Franculino the real attraction.
“He is available in January in theory. As we’ve said, I did touch base with his people contacts over here, intermediaries over here are working for him and they’re still saying that £40 million price tag is there,” Bailey told Everton News.
“It’s a little bit beyond what some will want to pay.”
“So, I’m told that he is open to a move in January. He’s happy, but there’s interest there. I’m told there’s interest from about 20 clubs across Europe from Germany, Italy, France. I think it’ll need a club to test their resolve.”
Everton scouts watched Franculino earlier this week, with their attendance becoming more and more regular.
The Toffees certainly need another striker, but FC Midtjylland have already set out their stall for any clubs seriously interested in making their move.
Franculino was in fine form against Celtic
In a comfortable victory for the Danish outfit, Franculino found the back of the net against Celtic to secure the points.
The youngster has now taken his tally for the season to a staggering 18 goals across all competitions.
Franculino 25/26 (All competitions) Total
Appearances 25
Minutes 1758
Goals 18
Assists 3
Moyes was left in disbelief at Barry’s missed chance on Monday evening against Sunderland in the Premier League.
A shake up at the striker position may be needed in the short-term, but Everton still find themselves in search of a long-term answer.
What Everton now need to weigh up is whether they feel he can translate this form into goals in the Premier League.