Everton have now held talks with agents about signing the “outstanding” defender who is available for £13m this month, according to the report.
The Toffees need younger options at full-back
Seamus Coleman and Ashley Young have had stellar careers, with the latter proving to be a consistent starter in Premier League this season. However, it would be fair to say that the duo are now in the twilight years of their careers, which means David Moyes tasked with bringing in younger options at full-back this month or in the summer, and a number of targets have been identified.
Southampton’s Kyle Walker-Peters could be available for a cut-price £5m this winter, with his contract expiring at the end of the campaign and the Toffees being one of the clubs considering a move for the Englishman.
Everton is looking for another first division player to reinforce on the opposite side, with Chelsea Ben Chilwell on their target listwho have fallen out of favor at Stamford Bridge since the arrival of Enzo Maresca in the summer.
Connected
A report from CalcioMercato has now revealed another player the Toffees have some interest in, stating that they have held talks with the agent of AC Milan right back Emerson Royal. Emerson is set to leave the San Siro this month and there are a number of clubs vying for his signature, including Fulham and Galatasaray, however the latter club are currently leading the race for his signature.
There is still time for Everton to get involved, as the Turkish club have yet to meet Milan’s €15m (£13m) valuation, and there are signs the Brazilian is interested in a move to Goodison Park. Although joining Galatasaray appeals to some extent to the 26-year-old, he would prefer a return to the Premier League, having previously spent time at Tottenham Hotspur.
What Emerson could offer Everton
The former Spurs man has particularly impressed with his performances over the past year, ranking in 89th percentile for tackles at 90, compared to his peers at the position, while also ranking in the 81st percentile for clearances and 83rd for flights won.
Ange Postecoglou was full of praise for the right-back before his move to Milan, and the Australian indicated that he is an excellent player who must lift the team’s spirit: “I see it every day, others don’t, but if you watch Emerson Royal train every day, you’d think he plays every game.
“He’s just outstanding with his attitude and demeanor around the place. There’s no time for anyone to feel down.”
With Coleman nearing the end of his career, there are signs that Emerson could be a suitable long-term replacement at right-back, but the Toffees will need to move quickly with Galatasaray in the best position as things stand.
