Everton have been reaching out to a number of transfer targets this summer.
Everton are in talks to sign Thierno Barry after his prolific season in La Liga with Villarreal, and it’s understood the Friedkin Group are ready to sanction a £33m move.
Barry is keen to make a switch to the Premier League and wants to test himself at Everton, who have ambitions of playing in Europe under the new owners.
The Toffees are also exploring a deal to sign Jack Grealish, who is set to leave Manchester City after four years at the club.
Rangers midfielder Mohamed Diomande is being eyed by David Moyes, too, and now his manager Russell Martin has lifted the lid on his future at Ibrox.
Photo By Ricardo Larreina/Europa Press via Getty Images
Photo By Ricardo Larreina/Europa Press via Getty Images
Russell Martin shares what Rangers have told him about Everton target Mohamed Diomande
Moyes is keen to bolster his midfield ranks after Orel Mangala and Abdoulaye Doucoure’s departures from Finch Farm.
Diomande has emerged as a potential recruit, and Rangers manager Martin was asked about his future at the club.
Martin appeared to suggest he’s been given assurances that the 23-year-old won’t be sold.
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“We have to try and keep our best players,” the Gers boss explained. “And I think we’re all really aligned with that.
“So, unless things come in that really help the club to build and move forward, I don’t think it’s a necessity to do that at all. That’s my understanding of it.
“And we’ve all been really clear on it. So we’ll just have to wait and see. But I’m looking forward to working with those guys.”
It would take a sizable offer to sign Diomande
It’s been reported that Rangers will only sell Diomande for a substantial fee, perhaps exceeding the current Scottish record, which saw Matt O’Riley join Brighton for around £25m last summer.
That said, it seems unlikely the Toffees would be willing to go that high, with a number of Championship targets available for much cheaper.
Moyes is interested in signing Sunderland’s Dan Neil, who is thought to be valued at around £15m. Bristol City’s Jason Knight has also been linked to Goodison Park.
Harrison Armstrong could even make the step up to Moyes’ squad after a stellar six months at Derby County last term.
So, as it stands, a deal to sign Diomande looks off the table.