Everton are now plotting a surprise move for a winger, with David Moyes believed to be an admirer, but they are set to face competition for his signature, according to a report.
Toffees' summer transfer plans taking shape
Following a major improvement in form since the return of Moyes, the Toffees' relegation fears have been quashed, which allows them the luxury of finishing the Premier League season without relegation fears, while giving Goodison Park a fitting send-off.
However, after the move to Bramley-Moore Dock takes place, the aim will be to kick on and compete for a place in Europe, rather than worrying about relegation, which means the Merseysiders could need to bring in a number of reinforcements this summer.
Targets have been identified in several positions, with Genoa's Koni De Winter of interest at centre-back, alongside Burnley's Maxime Esteve, while a move for Udinese striker Lorenzo Lucca is now being plotted to bolster the frontline.
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Everton are planning to strengthen in the transfer market this summer.
Moyes is seemingly keen to strengthen his squad in a number of areas, with a report from TEAMtalk revealing Everton are also keen on a surprise move for Liverpool winger Ben Doak, who the Scottish manager is said to be an admirer of.
It would be a shock to see a player cross the Merseyside divide, with Gary Ablett the last player to complete a direct move from Anfield to Goodison Park back in 1992, but the Toffees' interest is thought to be genuine, having held internal talks about the move.
ben doak
Moyes' side are yet to make an official move for the winger, but should they be willing to firm up their interest, they may need to offer between £25m - £30m to tempt the Reds into a sale, amid interest from Premier League rivals Crystal Palace and AFC Bournemouth.
Everton's upcoming Premier League fixtures Date
Liverpool (a) April 2nd
Arsenal (h) April 5th
Nottingham Forest (a) April 12th
Manchester City (h) April 19th
Chelsea (a) April 26th
"Rapid" Doak could be top signing for Everton
On the face of it, Everton fans may not be too keen on the prospect of signing a Liverpool player, but there are plenty of signs the 19-year-old could get his career truly up and running at Goodison Park.
The Scottish winger has spent time on loan at Middlesbrough in the Championship this season, where he has impressed considerably, picking up three goals and seven assists in 24 league outings.
Former Blues striker James McFadden also praised the starlet for his performance at international level against Croatia earlier in the campaign season, saying: “We all know he’s rapid and often you get players who are really quick but don’t have technical ability.
“But you can see he has got that. His first touch is good, it takes him where he wants to go.
Should Liverpool be willing to sell Doak this summer, there is every indication he could make an instant impact at Goodison Park, while also possessing a lot of potential, so it is promising news that Everton could make a surprise move.