Everton have been linked with a move for Lazio defender Mario Gila – but face strong competition from AC Milan.
It was reported earlier this week that Everton want a new centre-back this summer, with that one of three priority positions.
Potentially, Everton could lose Michael Keane, whose contract expires at the end of the season.
Who should be Everton’s starting centre-backs for next season? 😬
Ross Sykes could provide a dominant replacement for Michael Keane! 🤩
Ross Sykes playing in the Champions League for Union SG against Atletico Madrid.
Credit: Getty Images/Diego Souto
James Tarkowski is also not getting any younger, and so the Toffees looking at a new centre-back makes sense.
There’s been links to a few players in recent weeks.
Ben White is on Everton’s radar, amid a lack of minutes at Arsenal. Marcos Senesi is also a player who is admired.
Mario Gila has been mentioned too, but Everton seemingly have work to do if they’re to sign him.
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AC Milan in pole position for Everton target Mario Gila with Inter also keen
Tuttomercatoweb have reported that interest in Lazio defender Gila is now really hotting up.
Gila is thought to have decided he won’t be extending his current contract at Stadio Olimpico, meaning he will be sold this summer as he’ll only have a year left in his existing deal.
Everton have shown interest in Gila, who has had a string of eye-catching performances this term.
But in a potential blow for David Moyes, TMW say it’s AC Milan who are currently pushing the hardest to sign Gila.
Mario Gila playing for Lazio.
Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images
They are starting to ‘move concretely’ according to the publication.
In further bad news for Everton, Inter are also said to be on the scene, although it’s made clear that Milan are the club in pole position right now.
To have both Milan giants for competition really isn’t ideal for Everton if Gila was a player the club intended to move for.
That said, any defender must see how Moyes has got Everton so solid at the back.
Perhaps Gila may see Moyes as someone who can help him further improve his game.
Jarrad Branthwaite has been superb under Moyes and Gila – who’s actually been a more accurate passer than Branthwaite this season (90% vs 82%, via WhoScored) – may also thrive if brought in.
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