Everton are showing late interest in West Ham United midfielder Tomas Soucek to bolster their defence.
David Moyes has already seen Tyler Dibling added to his squad this week, but there are still positions which need addressing before Monday’s deadline.
It has been reported that Everton want to add a defender and a midfielder before the window shuts for the summer.
Soucek is a player who Everton have tracked for months, following the appointment of Moyes back in January.
Angus Kinnear was tasked with a huge job at Everton this summer following numerous departures in June.
Everton News’ transfer correspondent, Graeme Bailey, has now shared his understanding of Soucek’s situation with days remaining in the market.
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Graham Potter open to Tomas Soucek sale amid Everton interest
Everton have been eyeing Soucek for a long period, with the midfielder viewed by some as Everton’s next Marouane Fellaini.
Time is running out for clubs to get their deals across the line, but Bailey has provided some optimism, with Graham Potter open to allowing Soucek to leave.
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“I am told Everton did make a bid for Soucek, this was actually last week, and it was rejected almost as soon as it was made,” Bailey told Everton News.
“David Moyes encouraged the bid and they feel the offer was right in terms of value but West Ham disagreed and were quick to say no.
“I am also told that despite Soucek being told by Graham Potter he can leave, some at the club are not so sure, so getting him might not be as easy as some think.”
Other reports have backed Bailey’s information, with West Ham cautious about selling Soucek at this point in the window.
Any movement for the Czech would require the Hammers to find a replacement, and the clock is ticking for that to happen.
Tomas Soucek has not been a regular under Graham Potter
Soucek has only started one of the opening two games in the Premier League this season under Potter.
The Czech did start the game against Chelsea on Friday night, but he was withdrawn after 70 minutes.
Potter did sing Soucek’s praise at the end of last season after the midfielder returned five goals in 17 league appearances.
“He’s been a fantastic signing for the club first and foremost,” Potter said at the end of last season.
“To deliver what he’s delivered over a period of time, brilliant in the boxes, helps defensively, set-pieces and then to chip in, as a midfielder, with goals is vital.”