Everton are currently well stacked in the winger department with Richarlison, Demarai Gray, Anthony Gordon and Andros Townsend. However, that hasn’t stopped Everton from getting linked with wingers. FC Porto winger Otavio has been the latest attacker associated with Everton.
There is the obvious talk of Richarlison’s exit. It is very likely that either Richarlison or Dominic Calvert-Lewin will leave the club and in case of Richarlison’s departure, the Toffees will need a winger.
Andros Townsend suffered a cruciate ligament injury in March and will be out for at least until the end of the year. The former Crystal Palace man penned a two year deal in 2021 which means that he will be in the final six months of his contract when he is back fit. Frank Lampard may take a call of not offering him fresh terms.
In that case, Everton will need a new winger. Alex Iwobi can operate on the wings but he prefers to play in a more central role. Lately, he has been blossoming in a right wing back role so Lampard may not deploy him on the wings.
Everton enquire about Porto winger Otavio
According to Portuguese outlet O Jogo (via Sport Witness), Porto winger Otavio is a target for several sides. The Primeira Liga winngers are expecting offers for the 27 year old this summer. Several mid table Premier League sides have already contacted Porto over Otavio and Everton are one of them.
However, Porto are reluctant to let the Portuguese leave this summer. In 49 appearances for Sergio Conceicao’s side, Otavio scored five goals and provided 14 assists. Otavio is enjoying the best period of his career and is valued higher than ever.
Porto are in a comfortable position for Otavio’s negotiation. The 27 year old has a contract till 2025 and has a release clause of €60 million. This has not deterred his suitors who have been following him.
Everton tried to sign Luis Diaz last summer but failed to find an agreement with Porto. The Colombian joined arch-rivals Liverpool in January and it now seems that Everton are interested in another Porto winger. However, despite initial contacts being made, it will take a humongous effort to complete the deal.
Financially, it looks impossible at this point as Everton will first have to make considerable sales before even thinking of activating the €60 million release clause. Porto are unlikely to listen to offers that are not close to the release clause.
Is Otavio a realistic option to be considered?