Everton are exploring a deal to sign Torino midfielder Cesare Casadei.
Casadei has been a standout performer for the Serie A side this season, and Everton are clearly keen to wrap up a deal ahead of the summer window.
A Toffees chief is in Italy to discuss the Casadei transfer, so it seems to be moving at a real pace.
Moyes’ current deal expires next year… 🤔
Everton manager David Moyes.
The 23-year-old spent a few years in Chelsea’s academy, and Gianfranco Zola was a big admirer of the young midfielder.
Gianfranco Zola has previously praised Everton target Cesare Casadei
Speaking back in 2024, Zola explained that he really rates Casadei and can see him having a good future in the game.
“I have high esteem of him,” the Chelsea legend said.
“I saw him playing youth level. I saw him in Leicester. I really like it. He really needs to have a chance.
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“The competition is strong in Chelsea, but strong competition makes a strong player. I hope he can make it.”
Would you be happy with this potential transfer Toffees fans? 🤔
Everton target Crysencio Summerville.
Ultimately, Casadei never quite made the grade at Stamford Bridge, but he did make a commendable 17 appearances.
Enzo Maresca, who managed him at Leicester City and Chelsea, also publicly heaped praise on the Italian, noting that his physicality was a big strength of his.
“I am very happy with the way he is playing. I had Cesare last year and he was playing a little bit in different position,” Maresca stated.
“This year, we are using him like a holding midfielder. The reason why is because I think we go in the direction where the middle you need physical players.
“Cesare is very big, physically strong and helps us when we want to press. On the ball, he is improving a lot. Tonight he played one touch, so we are very happy. For him, it’s the same as the rest; many things he can do better but he is in the right direction.”
Signing Casadei would be a big risk for Everton because, although he is a physical player, he did seem to struggle with the intensity of English football.
The 2003-born is better suited to a slower pace, hence why he’s impressing back in Italy.
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