itstargetnews
everton “One of the best centre-backs in Europe” has now been identified as a priority target and a formal offer is planned.
Toffees eye new defender in Europe
The Toffees are expected to compete for European places this season, rising to eighth in the table Premier League Their solid defense was key to their success after a 2-1 win over Fulham at the weekend.
indeed, david moyesThe team has only conceded 28 goals this season, the fewest of any team outside the top five, which makes up for the fact that they are not prolific in scoring, scoring fewer goals than 18th-placed West Ham United.
Moyes has been further boosted recently by the return of Jarrad Branthwaite, with the Englishman having featured in each of the last three Premier League games, albeit only as a late substitute in the win at Craven Cottage.
Even so, Merseyside have plenty of options at the back following Branthwaite’s return, but they have now begun signing a new defender in the summer transfer window.
This is according to a report in Spain which claims that the Atletico Madrid centre-back Robin Lenormand identified as Everton’s ‘primary target’as it is believed he would be a perfect fit for Moyes’ side.
Such is their interest that the Toffees are planning to submit a formal bid to ensure they win the race for Lenormand’s signature before a bidding war breaks out at the end of the season.
Interestingly, the Spanish club are willing to sanction a departure, with their asking price being €40m (£35m).
Lenormand is regarded as one of the “best” centre-backs in Europe
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente Undoubtedly a huge fan of the Atletico Madrid star, he said earlier this season: “I’m very happy with him, very happy. I think he is one of the best centre-backs in Europe.
“I know his strengths and I know they can’t be changed. When we drafted him, we knew who he was: very competitive, focused and he does his job like a pro.”
As Everton progress into Europe, they may need to bring in players with experience at the highest level and the 29-year-old fits the bill, having made a total of 37 appearances in the Champions League and Europa League, as well as 27 caps for the Spanish national team.
The defender has averaged 4.9 clearances per 90 minutes in La Liga this season, the highest among Atletico Madrid, and he has also shown his ability on the ball, averaging 50.2 accurate passes per 90 minutes, ranking third.
As such, Lenormand might be an ideal addition to Everton’s backline, but he’s not the only defender they’re eyeing…
