The Spaniard looks like he has fallen foul of Ronald Koeman’s hardball approach at Goodison.
Roma are monitoring Everton winger Gerard Deulofeu, Calciomercato report, in a potential transfer deal that could well leave an opening for the Toffees to push for Memphis Depay.
The Spaniard was in dazzling form under Roberto Martinez last season and looked destined to finally fulfil his potential under Ronald Koeman, a man renowned for his ability to smooth the edges of talented young players, but his progress has stalled alarmingly at Goodison Park.
Consequently, speculation has intensified that Everton could be willing to cash in on the former Barcelona graduate in January with Calciomercato reporting that AC Milan are keen on signing him on loan.
However, they add that the player and club would prefer a permanent transfer and the current impasse means Roma could sneak in and secure Deulofeu’s signature from underneath the noses of their European-chasing rivals.
Giallorossi coach Luciano Spalletti is reportedly keen on enhancing his wide options this month with Egyptian international Mo Salah set to depart for the African Cup of Nations.
And this could potentially have huge ramifications for the future of Manchester United outcast Memphis Depay.
The Sun reported last month that Everton and Roma were ready to go head-to-head for the Dutch international but the prospect of Deulofeu arriving at the Stadio Olimpico, and thus departing Goodison Park, means a move to Merseyside would appear far more likely if Depay is enticed by the prospect of first-team football.
Koeman confirmed back in November, per Sky Sports, that he was interested in the prospect of bringing compatriot Depay to Goodison and he would surely be more than willing to dispense with Deulofeu, who has started just four games all season, in order to get his man.
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