[Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent
Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent](https://www.footballinsider247.com/author/pete-o-rourke-transfer-correspondent)
Transfer Correspondent AUTHORITY Former Sky Sports and ESPN FC correspondent who specialises in global recruitment, contract negotiations, and high-velocity transfer breaking news. FOCUS Exclusive reporting, domestic and international transfer markets, and elite-level insights. THE INSIGHT Pete utilises a Global Network of Industry Sources to deliver verified, first-to-market reporting. His “Deep-Lens” analysis connects the dots between boardroom strategy and pitch-level recruitment, providing a level of transfer clarity that goes beyond surface-level rumours.
Everton may find it "difficult" to sign Lecce centre-back Tiago Gabriel this winter due to the increasing level of competition for his signature, sources have told Football Insider.
The Toffees are clear admirers of the 21-year-old alongside Crystal Palace, but the interest goes far beyond just the pair of Premier League sides at the moment.
The Portuguese is also on the radar of the likes of Inter Milan and Bayern Munich, as his talent has alerted some of European football's top clubs.
The youngster is understood to prefer a move to either Inter or Bayern, as both can offer Champions League football.
Gabriel failed to start in just two Serie A games last term, and he has continued to display top form so far in 2026-27.
Lecce to open door to Tiago Gabriel sale
Gabriel's form for Lecce so far this season has prompted clubs from across Europe to sit up and take serious notice of his progress.
The youngster has been impressive at the heart of the backline for his team, and he has been imperious when it comes to winning battles against other players.
Gabriel has won 69.2 per cent of his duels in Serie A so far this term, and that number grows up to 75 per cent when it comes to aerial duels.
Football Insider revealed earlier this week that Lecce are open to the idea of a mid-season sale, and are prepared to sell to the "highest bidder."
However, it does not suit Everton if it becomes a battle to secure his services, given the stature of some of the other interested parties.
With the likes of Inter and Bayern lurking, Everton will have to act quickly and get in early once the window opens if they are to win the race.
The Manchester United forward has emerged as a surprise target for the Merseysiders in recent days, and Wyness believes that discussions are already underway at Everton.
He has been back in the fold for United so far this term, after notching 25 goal involvements on loan at Barcelona last season.