Everton enter negotiations to make a swoop for 6 feet 2 inch ‘monster’ for €17 million

Two weeks have passed since the January transfer window opened and Everton are constantly being linked to forwards as the Toffees look to solve their goalscoring issues by signing a competent forward in the transfer window. Atalanta striker Duvan Zapata is the latest name to be added to the list of forwards.

Everton’s goalscoring woes have been one of the major reasons why they sit in the relegation zone, halfway through the Premier League campaign. Just 15 goals in 19 games is not a galring endorsement of the attacking talent that the club has. Strikers Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Neal Maupay have struggled in front of the goal and lacked the necessary bite up top.

The wingers Anthony Gordon, Dwight McNeil and Demarai Gray have also not provided the adequate support in the attack and their volatile performances have seen the Toffees become toothless in attack.

If Frank Lampard’s side is to avoid relegation, they will need a herculean effort, most importantly from the attacking unit. Signing a forward is a necessity in the January transfer window as Maupay’s £15 million investment seems to be offering negligible returns.

Everton in talks with Atalanta for Duvan Zapata

Strikers like Terem Moffi of Lorient, Elye Wahi of Montpellier and Arnaut Danjuma of Villarreal have been linked to Everton, but as things stand, none of the names are closer to a move to Goodison Park. According to Tutto Mercato Web, Atalanta striker Zapata has attracted attention from Everton and in fact, the Merseysiders have opened talks to sign the Colombian striker.

Everton have proposed a loan with an option-to-buy to Atalanta, with the buy option fixed at €17 million (£15 million). The Merseysiders are now waiting for a response from the Bergamo club. Last January, Newcastle United also showed interest in the 31 year old striker and Atalanta quoted a price of £35 million.

The Colombian has had an injury ravaged 2022, which is one of the reasons why his stock has fallen. The injuries have surely taken a toll on the Colombian as 31 year old seems to have slowed down a little. He has netted just once in 11 Serie A games this season and the Merseysiders will be expecting more from him should he arrive at Goodison Park.

Everton need to get it absolutely right with their January signings as there is no wriggle room. They desperately need efficient goalscorers who can save the Toffees from a drop to the Championship. While Zapata has prolific instincts, his recent run doesn’t support his case. Everton might be better off without him and should dedicate their time and money in search of another striker.

Should Everton sign Duvan Zapata?