Everton up the ante in their pursuit of Gylfi Sigurdsson

Everton are turning it up at notch, as they do everything possible to sign Gylfi Sigurdsson, but will it ultimately be enough?

Anyone else get the idea Everton are really eager to sign Gylfi Sigurdsson? We’re saying this with tongue firmly in cheek of course, but the Blues are turning up the heat, in their pursuit of the winger.

As reported by the Mirror‘s James Nursey, Everton are prepared to offer Sigurdsson the same money as Wayne Rooney, to convince him to move to Merseyside. This would effectively double his wages, to £150,000 per week.

It’s possible this offer has partly been prompted by Leicester City’s recent interest. However, the Foxes are not expected to be factor in much, as the 27-year-old apparently has his heart set on joining Ronald Koeman’s side.

In truth, any offer to the player himself is secondary to what Swansea City want. Understandably, they would prefer Sigurdsson to stay and they are theoretically working from a position of strength, with him still having three years remaining on his current contract.

More from Prince Rupert's Tower

However, if Swansea are to relent, it’s going to take at least £50 million to persuade them to let their prized asset leave. The Icelandic international played an extremely crucial part in helping the club avoid relegation last season, with nine goals, 13 assists and just general mayhem in the opposing half of the pitch.

Up to now, the most Everton have been prepared to offer, is £40 million. Now, there is talk of them making an improved bid of £45 million.

Really though, the Blues need to bite the bullet and put £50 million on the table. Yes, it’s a lot of money, but they can afford it.

Swansea are predictably frustrated with how long this situation has been dragging on for. It is also affecting Sigurdsson, who backed out of the clubs’ pre-season tour to the USA, just hours before they left for Philadelphia.

This in turn prompted Swansea’s American owners to release a statement, essentially warning Everton over their conduct. Like most people, they just want this matter resolved, so they can concentrate fully on their preparations for the new season.

In that respect, it really is more simple than the Toffees are making things right now. If they truly want Sigurdsson — and they do — pay the necessary £50 million and bring this saga to an end.

Next: Everton wait in the wings for Loic Remy

As this situation drags on, what is your belief regarding how it will end? Will Sigurdsson join Everton before the close of this transfer window, move to Leicester, stay with Swansea, or go somewhere else altogether? Share your thoughts in the comments sections below.

Home/Everton FC News