In search of an attacking spark, Everton have now reportedly joined Newcastle United in the race to sign young Brazilian star Allan Elias from Palmeiras in 2026.
The Toffees have endured an inconsistent season so far, but entered the international break off the back of a routine 2-0 victory over Fulham. For the most part, David Moyes' side have shown potential, albeit without blowing teams away.
It must be said, however, that their weakness has been clear since the beginning of the campaign. Everton just can't get their strikers going on the goal front. After making Thierno Barry one of their most expensive signings, those in Merseyside would have at least expected a goal or two by now. So far, though, he's yet to find the back of the net.
Meanwhile, Beto is also struggling. The towering forward showed glimpses of promise last season - especially under Moyes - but has so far scored just two goals in 13 games in all competitions.
The Friedkin Group are seemingly running out of patience with their strikers, too. Recent reports have claimed that Everton are interested in adding to their attack in the January transfer window, with Joshua Zirkzee and Daizen Maeda both linked.
The latter would be a particularly impressive signing, given that he scored 33 goals for Celtic at his best last season. Now apparrently keen to leave the Scottish club, Everton could reportedly land a deal for just £15m.
Alas, the Japan international isn't the only attacking spark on the Toffees' shortlist, and they could also make some improvements to those providing the service for Beto and Barry. Fresh headlines in Brazil have suggested that those at the Hill Dickinson Stadium now want a South American gem.
Everton join race to sign Allan Elias
According to reports in Brazil, via Sport Witness, Everton have now joined the race to sign Allan ahead of Newcastle. The 21-year-old has impressed for Palmeiras, assisting eight goals in the current campaign, and could yet ignite Moyes' frontline.
For many, Allan will be an unknown talent, but it's worth noting the impressive performances that he enjoyed from the bench at last summer's Club World Cup. Squaring off against the likes of Chelsea and Lionel Messi's Inter Miami, the young Brazilian more than held his own.
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The 21-year-old has also earned plenty of praise during his time at Palmeiras, with manager Abel Ferreira telling reporters: "It’s difficult to leave names like Veiga, Mauricio and Murilo out, but Allan comes in and gives a great dynamic. A machine."
Claims that Palmeiras have inserted a release clause worth as much as €100m (£88m) in Allan's contract shows just how highly they rate him and that could provide a problem for Everton.
As much as Friedkin were willing to spend big last summer, they mainly spent on proven European talent rather than gambling on the unknown. At this stage, it seems unlikely that the Toffees would spend £88m on Allan.
"Brilliant" Everton target asks to leave Celtic as Friedkin enter £15m race