Anthony Martial is reportedly open to joining Everton, but wages could prove an obstacle to any deal for the free-agent striker.
The former Manchester United forward has been linked with the Toffees since their chaotic end to the transfer window, when Beto was sold to Fiorentina, and a proposed £40m move for Folarin Balogun collapsed.
That left Thierno Barry as David Moyes’ only recognised senior centre-forward and prompted Everton to look at the free-agent market.
Martial open to Everton move
According to BritBall journalist Vlad Polivoda, Martial is willing to consider a move to Everton, with his salary currently the main hurdle.
The report says Martial’s most recent salary was around €3.5m per year and suggests Everton are reluctant to take on a substantial financial commitment for the 30-year-old.
Interestingly, that follows an earlier report on Tuesday which claimed Martial had rejected approaches from Everton and two Ligue 1 clubs because he wanted the guarantee of regular football.
So, if the latest information is accurate, his position appears to have shifted. It also adds another layer to Tuesday’s report that Everton would only consider signing Martial if Barry suffered an injury.
There is still nothing to suggest a deal is close, and the latest claims should be treated as just that for now.
As we discussed while reviewing Everton’s growing list of free-agent striker options, Moyes is in an awkward position. Barry is his only natural senior No.9, but signing an experienced free agent on significant wages merely as insurance brings its own problems.
Martial remains one possible solution. Whether the numbers can work for Everton is another question.
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