Everton pull out of race to sign £18.5m forward as Europa League club transfer close
Coventry City forward Viktor Gyokeres has been a target for Everton for a long time now. The Toffees showed interest in the Swedish striker before the January transfer window and since then they have been constantly linked with Gyokeres.
In January, EFC wanted to bolster their strike force and Gyokeres was viewed as a viable option. Back in the winter transfer window, Coventry were reluctant to sell the Swedish striker as he was the talisman in attack and the Championship side were in contention to secure Premier League football for next season.
Gyokeres continued to impress as he notched a total of 22 goals and provided 12 assists in 50 games. Coventry failed to win the Championship playoff final against Luton Town, resulting in their failure to secure promotion. With Coventry still in the Championship, the chances of keeping Gyokeres dimmed as Premier League clubs and clubs from Europe were already queuing for the Sweden international.
Everton cool down their interest in Viktor Gyokeres
The 25 year old has just one year left on his deal at Coventry and it is almost certain that the 25 year old will not renew with the Championship club. Everton were one of the most interested parties along with West Ham United and Sporting.
Coventry have been very stubborn with their asking price. They have not budged on their demands which was proving to be a stumbling block for Everton. Sporting on the other hand, have been very keen on the 25 year old and even submitted a bid for Gyokeres. Although the bid was nowhere close to Coventry’s valuation, Sporting were confident that further negotiations will take place and a deal can be done.
According to Coventry Live, Sporting appears to be Gyokeres’ next and most likely club as the Portuguese side have come back with a revised offer. Sporting are willing to pay £18.5 million plus add-ons. Coventry do hold out on their £20 million valuation but with a sell-on clause in the deal, Sporting remain confident of securing the transfer.
Another report from Portuguese outlet O Jogo (via Goodison News) suggests that Everton have pulled out of the race to sign Gyokeres. West Ham and Bournemouth have also cooled down their interest as the aforementioned three English clubs aren’t willing to meet Coventry’s valuation. The Toffees have missed out on their long time target and need to switch their focus immediately on other targets.
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Which striker should EFC target after missing out on Viktor Gyokeres?