Everton target rejects ultimate renewal offer as Napoli initiate contact

Everton are determined to sign a right back in the next summer transfer window. Apart from the right back position, one may put forward an argument that a right winger is needed to bolster the attack. Everton are in a favourable position to finish in a European spot; presuming that they achieve European qualification, they’ll need more depth in these areas to cope with the pressure of playing in four competitions next season.

The Toffees currently house Alex Iwobi and James Rodriguez who have frequently played in the right wing position. Carlo Ancelotti tinkers with his formations which require the players in the squad to have a certain degree of versatility. For instance, Iwobi has played on the left flank as a winger, played on the right as a wing back and a winger, doing a brilliant job playing as a wing back when the team went with a back three and as a winger in a 4-2-3-1.

This is what is so special about Ancelotti. His teams do not have a particular fixated identity. The Italian manager likes to deploy his team in a fluid manner and that is why they become so dangerous. For the smooth functioning of the team, Ancelotti needs to have versatile and easily malleable players at his disposal.

Lucas Vazquez has rejected the ultimate renewal offer from Real Madrid

One such player who can kill two birds with one stone is Lucas Vazquez. The 29 year old is in the final six months of his contract and is likely to leave Real Madrid after failed extension talks. Everton have been linked to the 29 year old recently as an air of uncertainty revolves around his future. According to Le10 Sport, Vazquez refused the ultimate extension offer from Real Madrid and will now become a free agent if Real do not table another offer.

More from Prince Rupert's Tower

• Everton 0 Arsenal 1: Blues fall to third home defeat
• Further chaos in Everton takeover as other lenders not keen on 777 Partners
• Everton need repeat of Arsenal win to kick-start their season on Sunday
• More madness at Everton as Moshiri now agrees to sell club to 777 Partners
• Everton takeover talk cools after UK govt doubts and further questions

The Spaniard has demanded a pay raise for his service to the club with Los Blancos are not ready to offer especially in the current scenario when other players such as Casemiro and Luka Modric are taking pay cuts.

Furthermore, Vazquez has already been contacted by Napoli and Leeds United over a possible free transfer in the summer. Should Everton also get into the mix and try their luck with Vazquez?

What can Lucas Vazquez bring to Everton?

Vazquez is a highly versatile player. He adapts to the roles assigned to him quickly. Apart from his traditional right wing position, the Spaniard has put in a commendable shift at right back from time to time, especially this season, as Dani Carvajal endures an injury plagued season. What he might lack in positional brilliance at times, he covers up with his industrious nature. Richarlison is one of the hardest working attackers, contributing defensively and Vazquez also matches that profile.

The 29 year old averages 3.42 tackles every 90 minutes and has a winning tackle success rate of 67% this season in La Liga. On the attacking front, Vazquez registers 4.04 crosses per 90 minutes and sits 3rd in the table for most crosses in the penalty area (16). He also is 5th in the table for most passes (42) in the penalty area which is a further testament to his attacking abilities. (stats via FBref)

Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison are goal hungry attackers with a knack for scoring headers, especially Calvert-Lewin. From the left flank we often see Lucas Digne darting in dangerous crosses. If the Toffees manage to sign Vazquez, inviting crosses from both the flanks will become a regular thing and pose a lot of threat for the opposition.

Lastly, Vazquez has won three Champions League titles with Real Madrid and has the experience to play on the biggest stage. This experience can be valuable for Everton and the players for next season as top six or possibly even top four becomes a realistic opportunity this season.

Should Everton sign Lucas Vazquez on a free transfer?