Everton are now expected to launch a move to sign El Hadj Malick Diouf if West Ham United are relegated on Sunday.
Everton line up new defensive signings
Whilst Everton's European hopes have dwindled in recent weeks, they can still reflect on a campaign full of potential. David Moyes has taken his side from the threat of relegation into a side capable of booking a European tour. The Friedkin Group should chalk that down as major progress.
The job isn't done yet, though. This summer represents the chance to kick on even further and do more than just flirt with the European places.
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The Premier League rivals could be set to battle it out.
On that front, several potential targets have been mentioned, including Manchester City great John Stones, who could make a sensational return to Merseyside this summer. He's just one of a number of defensive targets, including a key left-back upgrade.
According to Football Insider, Everton are expected to launch a move to sign Diouf in the coming months if West Ham fail to avoid relegation on the final day of the season.
The left-back has emerged as a top target for the Toffees following an impressive debut campaign in the Premier League, and could demand an exit within a matter of days - when the Hammers find out their fate this weekend.
diouf-west-ham
Former Premier League chief, Mick Brown, told Football Insider: "Diouf would certainly be an upgrade on what they’ve got, and he would bring that speed, physicality, directness to the side.
"The way he plays would suit David Moyes’ team very well, he could be the perfect fit, and I expect he will want to leave West Ham if they go down. If that happens, I expect Everton will be looking to make a move."
"Dominant" Diouf would be major upgrade for Everton
There's a lot of discussion to be had about Everton's fullbacks this summer. With Seamus Coleman bowing out, the Toffees have got the task of finding a worthy successor, whilst their left-back spot could also do with an upgrade on Vitaliy Mykolenko, which is where Diouf could come in.
The 21-year-old is full of potential, even if there are still some areas of his game that need ironing out. He certainly has the quality for the Premier League and it would be a surprise if he dropped down to the Championship with West Ham.
PL 25/26 Diouf Mykolenko
Minutes 2,621 2,870
Assists 5 1
Tackles 43 48
Recoveries 119 105
Duel success 53.4% 53%
Described as "dominant" by Como scout Ben Mattinson, Diouf would provide Everton with a new dynamic down the left-hand side. The West Ham man would instantly add another creative outlet without losing any defensive prowess that Mykolenko provides.
If there is an opportunity to secure his signature this summer, then those at the Hill Dickinson must jump at the chance.
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Everton are looking to pump fresh attacking quality into Moyes' squad this summer.