Everton have sealed the transfer of Youssef Chermiti with only the official announcement now remaining to confirm the move. The arrival of the young striker has not quenched the thirst of Everton to reinforce the striker department as the Toffees have made a bid for PSG striker Hugo Ekitike.
PSG striker Ekitike was signed from Stade Reims on a season long loan with an obligation to buy last summer. His move to Parc des Princes was made permanent earlier this summer but he could soon change clubs. Everton are leaning towards signing another striker as Chermiti won’t be an immediate starter and EFC do need a reliable backup to Dominic Calvert-Lewin, whose fitness cannot be gambled upon.
The player has immense potential and has shown glimpse of his talent during his one year spell at PSG. He has netted four goals and provided four assists last summer and managed to get considerable game time despite playing in an attack that consisted of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe.
Everton waiting for Hugo Ekitike green light to speed up transfer
Everton holds concrete interest in Ekitike with the Toffees looking to sign him on loan with an option to buy which could become mandatory. EFC boss Sean Dyche was asked about Ekitike in the press conference ahead of the Fulham clash and the former Burnley manager said he had no idea about the interest.
According to Radio France journalist Bruno Salomon, PSG have received an offer from Everton for Ekitike. The Frenchman is considering the offer and the Toffees are waiting for the player’s green light. If the 21 year old agrees to a move, EFC could speed up the negotiations as the French club are open to doing business. Everton have submitted an offer worth £25.9 million.
A number of clubs have shown interest in the Frenchman and EFC will have to beat competition from some elite clubs to sign Ekitike. If Ekitike does end up arriving at Goodison Park, Neal Maupay would definitely be offloaded before the end of the transfer window.
The Toffees are also in talks with Wilfried Gnonto but Leeds United are reluctant to let go of their Italian winger. Personal terms won’t be an issue as the 19 year old has already agreed to a move to Goodison Park. It is Leeds United who do not want to sell Gnonto despite the player ready to move to Everton since July.
It remains to be seen how Ekitike and Gnonto pursuits develop and if the Merseysiders can get both of their desired targets.
Will EFC sign Hugo Ekitike?