Everton have now made a move to sign Flaco Lopez from Palmeiras.
Respected South American news outlet Bolavip believe the Toffees have opened talks by making an initial enquiry about the Argentina international – who can boast 66 goals in 201 appearances for Palmeiras.
Everton face competition from Brentford for the Argentine, who Palmeiras fans have actually compared to Eric Cantona.
How we could do with one of these guys right now! 😫
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Romelu Lukaku of Everton celebrates his goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Hull City and Everton
Credit: Getty Images/Alex Dodd – CameraSport/Alex Livesey/Jan Kruger.
Everton fighting Brentford for the new Eric Cantona in Flaco Lopez
The Brazilian news outlet claim Palmeiras want at least €40m (£35m) to sell the 25-year-old this summer, but are in no rush to offload their talisman.
Palmeiras hold a strong negotiating stance, given the fact they are not desperate for the cash, while Lopez is under contract until July 2029.
There is, however, a positive for Everton in the fact that the South American himself is eager to play in the Premier League, and his representatives believe a move to England is the ideal next step in his career.
So, Lopez could well force the issue himself if Palmeiras choose to play hardball in negotiations with The Friedkin Group.
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Going back to those aforementioned comparisons, it was a popular Palmeiras fan group on Reddit who branded Lopez as the “green-and-white Cantona”.
They mention his tendency to play in a deeper attacking role and his ability to dribble well with bursts of speed as comparable traits to the French legend.
Others also made comparisons to Harry Kane, Roberto Firmino and Dennis Bergkamp in the comments section, considering Lopez is a striker who can not only make an impact in the box, but also drop deep to link the attacking play.
Everton also like Santiago Castro of Bologna – another Argentine striker – so a South American theme is developing on the transfer front at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Which former Everton target do you wish the club had signed? 🫣
Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Everton could soon firm up their initial approach with a bid.
Full name: José Manuel Alberto López
Age: 25
Date of birth: 6 December 2000
Height: 1.90m (6ft 3in)
Nationality: Argentina
Place of birth: San Lorenzo
Club: Palmeiras
Position: Striker
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