Roberto Martinez has made it known that he is looking for new recruits. The loss of Everton’s loan signings and a number of players being released, reinforcements are needed within the Everton line-up. The Blues have been heavily linked with a number of players this past week.
Alessio Cerci – Torino – Attacking midfielder – 26
The impressive Cerci was instrumental at Torino last season. His personal 13-goal haul combined with his almost telepathic partnership with Ciro Immobile was worth it’s weight in gold as Torino made an unexpected leap to Europe. Reports surfaced around this week that Everton had launched a £10m bid for the Italian international. This move would not be a source of joy for Torino, who sold off golden boy Ciro Immobile to Dortmund earlier this summer. But the absence of his partner-in-crime may turn 26-year-old Cerci’s head towards greener pastures, and Everton’s European qualification will be an attractive prospect, although still one he could get at Torino. However, Everton’s bid may not be enough to convince the men upstairs at the Serie A club to sell, with their asking price thought to be around €20m.
Likelihood rating – 6/10
Bruno Martins Indi – Feyenoord – Center half – 22
Martins Indi is making a name for himself very quickly indeed. He was a stand-out performer in Holland’s 5-1 demolition of holding World Champions Spain – and it’s no mean feat for a defender to get noticed when his team’s attackers are running riot. The Blues are in need of a new center half; Jags and Distin won’t be around forever, with both now edging closer to the end of their careers. Martins Indi would be an ideal signing for Everton, and with a affordable price-tag of around £6m, this deal seems on the cards.
Likelihood rating – 8/10
Steven Caulker – Cardiff – Center half – 22
Cardiff’s record signing will move this summer–it’s simply a question of where he moves to. A tall, athletic and composed defender, former Spurs man Caulker cannot be in the Championship next season if he wishes to truly make a name for himself. Cardiff are likely to want to recoup the fee of £8m that they paid for him last summer, and Everton would be happy enough to pay that, but with interest from old club Spurs and that lot across the park, Liverpool, The Blues aren’t without competition. However, Caulker may be swayed by the prospect of first team football at Goodison and would definitely consider an offer.
Likelihood rating – 6.5/10
Other rumours:
Jeremain Lens – Dynamo Kyiv to Everton
Stephan de Vrij – Feyenoord to Everton
Christian Tello – Barcelona to Everton
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