According to De Telegraaf, as cited by Inside Futbol, Ajax have received an attractive transfer offer for Everton target David Neres. The Dutch champions are yet to reveal their stance on the lucrative offer. But, it clearly doesn’t bode well for the Toffees, who are still yet to secure the services of a new winger this summer. It is believed that the club is due to hold talks with Neres regarding his future very soon.
In this article, we will discuss key reasons why Everton should make a move for the Brazilian international as they aim to kickstart a new era under Marco Silva next season.
Ademola Lookman poised for a Bundesliga return
Key winger Ademola Lookman looks set to return to RB Leipzig following a dreadful 2018/19 campaign. The 21-year-old was one of Premier League’s hottest prospects before the start of last season. But, the winger could only make 21 league appearances, only three of which were starts.
Injuries also played a key role in minimising Lookman’s overall game-time at the Goodison Park to just 601 minutes in the league. But more importantly, he was often overlooked by Silva. Hence, a return to Leipzig makes sense considering his success during his short spell in the Bundesliga during the backend of the 2017/18 campaign.
But, at the same time, Everton must need to fill the void created by the expected departure of Lookman, making Neres a viable option for the Toffees.
Everton’s lack of reliable wider-attacking options
Everton have an array of wingers at their disposal prior to the start of this new season even if Lookman does end up leaving Goodison Park. Indeed, the likes of Kevin Mirallas, Yannick Bolasie and Henry Onyekuru will offer Silva with plenty of options in the wide attacking department.
That being said, Mirallas endured a rough spell with Fiorentina last season, mustering only 1,297 minutes of league football. And despite starring for Belgian in the World Cup last summer, the veteran winger cannot be considered as a reliable option next season.
As for Bolasie, he has struggled to perform in the Premier League ever since his departure from Crystal Palace. Even though he did enjoy a promising spell at RSC Anderlecht last season, he will likely be sold by Silva this summer.
Same can be said for Onyekuru, who has become one of the darlings of the Turkish Superlig following his blistering performances with Galatasaray. Despite returning to Goodison Park after the end of his loan spell, the Nigerian is reportedly keen on returning to Istanbul. And this could force Everton to cash in on the winger while simultaneously accentuating the need for someone like Neres.
The Brazilian international is more than capable of filling up the right-wing slot for Everton next season, allowing his compatriot Richarlison to feature in his preferred role on the left-wing.