Everton dealt with a huge blow in £10.3m forward chase as player prefers staying

Everton have been in search of a striker and have evaluated a number of potential transfer targets. With Arnaut Danjuma on his way to Everton, the Toffees are now targeting another Dutchman, Brian Brobbey.

The lack of goalscoring was a serious concern for Sean Dyche last season and he is determined not to have a repeat of that in the 2023-24 season. Dyche wants to bring two strikers in the summer transfer window as Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s fitness cannot be gambled upon. The sale of Ellis Simms and potential departure of Neal Maupay could leave EFC with just Tom Cannon and Calvert-Lewin in the striker department.

Cannon is attracting a lot of interest from Preston North End with the Championship side have made the Irishman their top transfer target of the summer. Danjuma can play as a centre forward but he is the most potent on the left flank. The Toffees have been linked to a number of strikers.

Everton target Brian Brobbey prefers to stay at Ajax

Almeria forward El Bilal Toure continues to be on Everton’s radar, with a number of reports claiming that EFC have already made an offer. Salernitana striker Boulaye Dia is also on the Toffees’ list, although Dia’s €25 million release clause expired on 20th July. Salernitana are keen on Maupay and perhaps a player plus cash deal could be arranged.

Ajax striker Brobbey has also appeared on the EFC shortlist. However, the Toffees have been handed a blow in the chase of Brobbey, even before any concrete steps towards the transfer could have taken place. According to Voetbal International journalist Reon Boeringa, Everton’s interest in the Ajax striker could be genuine. However, Brobbey prefers to stay at Ajax this summer and a move away from Amsterdam is not on his agenda in the summer transfer window.

This will definitely deter Everton’s hopes, who could have had the services of a young and promising striker. Last season, the 21 year old netted a total of 14 goals in 45 outings across all competitions. He is valued at £10.3 million by Transfermarkt and has a contract till 2027 at Ajax, so the Dutch side are in no pressure to sell him or offload him.

At this point, Brobbey’s transfer looks very difficult and complicated. If EFC are able to convince Brobbey and if the Dutchman’s desire changes, only then can Everton prize him away from his home club. Otherwise, the Toffees have other strikers on the list like Union Saint-Gilloise forward Victor Boniface.

Will EFC manage to sign Brian Brobbey?