Everton have been looking for attacking reinforcements this summer and Nottingham Forest attacker Brennan Johnson has been a player that the Toffees are tracking. Everton manager Sean Dyche had very few options in the attack and if EFC are to avoid another relegation battle, they need to bring in players to upgrade the attack.
A few days ago, a report emerged claiming that Everton were interested in signing Johnson. Along with EFC, even West Ham United, Brentford and Aston Villa were showing interest in the Nottingham Forest attacker.
Johnson made 44 appearances in the 2022-23 season, scoring 10 goals and assisting another three. The 22 year old has played a key role in Steve Cooper’s side as they also avoided relegation by thin margins.
Everton will have to pay over £50 million for Brennan Johnson
With four Premier League clubs in the race to sign Johnson, Forest are aware they could get a large sum as a transfer battle could break out between the clubs. According to The Athletic, Brentford have already submitted a bid for the 22 year old. The Bees have submitted a bid of £30 million but the figure is far off Nottingham’s valuation. Even at £30 million, Forest would have earned a record fee but Forest value their prized asset for far more than what has been offered at the table.
It would take around £50 million for Nottingham to even remotely consider the idea of selling Johnson. Everton have held long term interest in the Welshman but given the insane valuations, EFC will have no option but to cool their interest. The Toffees have limited financial room to maneuver in the market and spending £50 million is certainly not a wise decision.
A player of Johnson’s calibre and high ceiling certainly elevates Everton’s squad quality. He can operate as a secondary striker, attacking midfielder and even on the right flank. The versatility he offers does come at a very steep price that Everton cannot afford.
Dyche will be looking to sign at least two forwards in this window and potentially look for another player to add depth to the flanks. EFC have Demarai Gray, Dwight McNeil and Alex Iwobi on the flanks but there are sides interested in Gray and if leaves Everton, the Toffees will have to sign a winger.
Which player should EFC target after Brennan Johnson being deemed as too expensive?