Everton have been after a new left-back for the entire window.
Everton are reportedly closing in on the signing of left-back Lucas Digne from Barcelona this summer, but could they be getting a better left-sided defender for cheaper?
Former Paris Saint-Germain star Digne has fallen down the pecking order at the Nou Camp, with Jordi Alba retaining his starting spot at left-back. It has seemingly convinced Digne to move on from the Spanish heavyweights.
But before Everton conclude a deal for Digne, surely they must consider rivalling Newcastle United and newly-promoted Fulham for Ajax left-back Nicolas Tagliafico.
The Sun claim Newcastle and Fulham are after the Argentina international for a bargain fee of just £8million, after he starred for his country at the World Cup – proving to be one of Argentina’s rare shining lights in a disappointing campaign.
For almost a third of Digne’s transfer fee, Tagliafico will be allowed to leave Ajax according to the report, and there is an argument to suggest that he is only just getting started – while Digne is declining.
Just 29 league appearances over the last two seasons has stunted Digne’s development, despite boasting the potential to become one of the world’s best left-backs prior to his move to Barcelona.
There is no doubt that Digne is still more than adept at left-back and would certainly be considered first choice, but for a much cheaper fee, Everton would be getting a player that is just getting started in Tagliafico.
The Toffee should consider a last-minute bid for the former Banfield star, or at least keep him on their radar if a deal for Digne falls through.
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