Everton are set to undergo changes in attack as Sean Dyche wants to sign a potent striker ahead of the 2023-24 season. Doubts have been raised over the continuity of Neal Maupay and EFC may look to replace him this summer. Swansea striker Joel Piroe is the latest name to be linked with a move to Goodison Park.
The Toffees netted just 34 goals in 38 Premier League games, second lowest goal tally in the Premier League. Out of 34 goals, only two were scored by Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Maupay. Calvert-Lewin had been out with several injuries, missing a total of 21 games in the Premier League. Maupay, on the other hand, failed to make a lasting impact at Goodison Park after his £15 million move from Brighton last summer.
The Frenchman has struggled to be the leader in attack in the absence of Calvert-Lewin. With Maupay’s inefficiency, Dyche had to use Demarai Gray as a central striker in several games in the second half of the season. EFC will look to offload Maupay this summer as they aim to sign two strikers this summer.
Everton make enquiries for Swansea striker Joel Piroe
Maupay has been linked with an exit this summer with Salernitana showing interest in the 26 year old. According to Wales Online, Swansea City striker Piroe is attracting a lot of interest from Premier League and Championship clubs. Everton have made initial enquiries for the Dutchman who had a fruitful season with Swansea.
The Welsh club are bracing for a bid from Leicester City who are looking for Kelechi Iheanacho’s replacement. Everton and Nottingham Forest are keen to sign Piroe too with enquiries being made about the 23 year old. However, EFC are yet to make any firm offers for Piroe.
The Dutchman is contracted at Swansea until 2024 but he has already communicated to the Championship club that he won’t be signing any contract extension. Piroe is also open to seeing out his contract and leaving as a free agent next summer but Swansea would like to cash in on him this summer instead of losing him on a free transfer next season. A sale is likely as the Dutch striker will consider all the options on the table.
He is eyeing an inclusion in the Dutch national side and wants to move to a club where he can develop and play regular first team football. Salernitana made an offer for Piroe but the offer has been rejected by Swansea. At Everton, Piroe will find regular playing time as he is the proposed Maupay replacement.
If the Frenchman does not leave Goodison Park, Piroe is likely to pip Maupay in the pecking order. Calvert-Lewin’s fitness remains a big question mark so Piroe will get plenty of opportunities should he sign for EFC. He is valued at £8.6 million by Transfermarkt but the competition for him could drive up his price.
Should the Toffees sign Joel Piroe from Swansea?