REUTERS/Kirby Lee
Everton have made late contact to sign Galatasaray star Baris Alper Yilmaz, as their search for a new forward continues.
It could be a busy few days at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, and an overhaul of David Moyes' attack is on the cards, with Richarlison closing in on a return to Merseyside, in a deal that sends Iliman Ndiaye in the opposite direction.
Richarlison, of course, has already proven himself in the Premier League, making 276 appearances in the competition, during which time he's amassed a very respectable 75 goals and 31 assists.
Action Images via Reuters/Matthew Childs
The Brazilian is capable of playing on the wing or through the middle, which is an added bonus, and the same is true of Yilmaz, although his primary position is left-winger, and he picked up eight goals and 12 assists in 30 Turkish Super Lig appearances last season.
Not only is the 26-year-old impressing at club level, but he has also caught the eye for national side Turkey. After his side's 2-2 draw against Czechia at Euro 2024, journalist Uğur Karakullukçu said: "Baris Alper Yılmaz was an animal. How is he so successful at dribbling? He gets between 3 people, passes them, throws a feint, goes in. He did the show. It is stupid to talk to Barış Alper in this match, he was unbelievable."
As such, the Turk could now be ready to test himself in the Premier League, where a number of clubs are waiting in the wings to secure his signature.
Everton's main targets Position Potential fee
Kenny Tete RB £9m
Richarlison CF £35m
Baris Alper Yilmaz LW £43m
Everton make late approach to sign Baris Alper Yilmaz
REUTERS/Jessie Alcheh
According to a report from Fotospor (via Sport Witness), Everton are still keen on signing Yilmaz, after agreeing personal terms with the forward earlier in the transfer window.
Talks have been opened regarding a late deal, but Newcastle United have also been in contact, so there could be competition for the 38-cap Turkey international's signature.
Earlier in the window, the Turkish side were willing to sanction a departure for €50m (£43m), which means he would be a relatively expensive addition to Moyes' squad.
However, Galatasaray are no longer planning to sell the forward, as they won't have sufficient time to sign a replacement, so it remains to be seen whether a deal will be possible.
Consequently, Richarlison may be the only forward that arrives at the Hill Dickinson Stadium before Tuesday's deadline, should he choose to return to Merseyside, as the Brazil international has a number of other options available.