Ronald Koeman has been proactive this summer and he is already getting deals done for some of his top transfer targets. Everton have already announced the likes of Jordan Pickford and Davy Klaassen but the manager is no mood to slow down and is targeting more signings already.
One player who is now constantly linked with a move to the Goodison Park is Gustavo Gomes. According to reports, AC Milan are ready to part ways with the Paraguay defender who joined the club just last summer. The 24-year old has made just 11 Serie A starts last season but it is understood that AC Milan are open to selling for the right price and Everton are one of the few teams interested in his services.
A product of the famous Libertad academy, Gomes was in fine form for Lanus, an Argentine club before he made a move to Europe. However, he has not been able to impress the Italian club’s hierarchy and is now set to be a part of the squad overhaul they have planned at the San Siro this summer.
Capable of playing as a right back, Gomes is a central defender, his passing being his major strengths. He is strong and athletic and is dominant in the air but is also an excellent passer of the ball even from dangerous situations. However, he is also adept at clearing the ball out of danger when the situation demands and is a player who has a calm head on his shoulder.
His high levels of concentration and ability to read the game ahead of him, have given him 21 senior appearances for the national side already and at just 24, is only going to get better.
Everton have used Ashley Williams and Phil Jagielka regularly last season with Ramiro Funes Mori the only real backup in the first team. Mason Holgate can play that role but Koeman needs first team players who can help them compete at the highest level next season and Gomes could be a decent option.
Jagielka is now 34 and needs to be replaced in the first team and though the Paraguay defender is far from reaching that level, at his age, he will only get better and playing for a manager like Koeman will only help his progress.
Everton have failed to replace John Stones properly last summer and have been linked with some of the finest defenders in England for a move this summer. As risky as it might be, spending on a player who has no experience in England, Gomes could be the perfect replacement for Stones at the Goodison Park.
