Everton are eyeing a move for Palmeiras striker Vitor Roque in January 2027, according to Sport, as the Premier League side looks to plug a major gap up front.
The Toffees have relied mainly on Thierno Barry, who has led the line to the best of his ability but could still use some competition up top.
Everton let go of Beto and nearly signed Folarin Balogun to replace him, but the deal collapsed, leaving David Moyes short-manned.
The Merseyside club can correct their massive error in the January transfer window by signing Roque, who has found his groove after a treacherous time in Europe.
Roque has netted nine goals and two assists in 39 appearances this term (around 1,984 minutes).
Last term, the Brazilian international Everton target bagged 16 league goals in 33 appearances.
Once touted as Brazil’s best young striker, he joined Barcelona hoping to follow in the footsteps of De Lima Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, and Neymar, but failed to do so.
He returned to Palmeiras, where he has reestablished himself, and his performances have caught the attention of Everton alongside other Premier League rivals.
His club has set a minimum €50 million price tag for any interested suitor.
Everton should not be targeting Roque
However, Everton should be looking beyond a striker who struggled at Barca, a club that creates chances for fun.
Roque’s resurgence in Brazil is encouraging, but it does not erase the concerns raised by the 21-year-old’s disappointing spell in Europe.
The Toffees already have a young forward in Barry who needs time and the right environment to develop.
What Moyes needs is an experienced, lethal operator who can make an immediate difference in the league, take pressure off Barry and turn half-chances into goals.
Spending heavily on another developing striker would be a questionable use of resources when Everton desperately need a proven goalscorer.