Is Everton’s apparent Ezri Konsa snub baffling as Brighton reportedly swoop in?

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Brighton and Hove Albion look set to win the race for Charlton Athletic defender Ezri Konsa, after Premier League rivals Everton backed out.

Everton are prepared to play the waiting game in their pursuit of Charlton Athletic youngster Ezri Konsa.

Unfortunately, it appears that their Premier League rivals are not prepared to join in.

Everton looked almost certain to sign the England youth centre-back this month, with the Liverpool Echo reporting that chief scout Martyn Glover watched Konsa in action recently. Charlton were also ready to listen to offers with the youngster seemingly within the Toffees’ grasp.

But despite the 20-year-old’s obvious potential, The Mail reports that Everton are not prepared to meet Charlton’s rather modest asking price of £5 million; a year after paying double that for Ademola Lookman.

It is certainly a questionable approach. Konsa is under contract until 2020 so his value is not going to decrease any time soon. In fact, quite the opposite, as the more he impresses the more he will be worth.

And it appears that Everton’s dawdling could cost them one of the most talented young defenders in the country.

Because while the Toffees are unwilling to pay £5 million, The Sun reports that Brighton have no qualms about putting £8 million on the table and now hope to welcome Konsa to The Amex before this weekend.

The Seagulls have been in the market for a new centre-back and it appears they have identified their man.

Konsa, then, looks like one that got away for Everton. £8 million is pocket change to a club with the Toffees’ financial resources and, if the centre-back fulfils his potential, he will be worth far more.