Benfica centre-back Jardel was linked with a move to Everton last summer but now it appears that West Brom are interested.
It would speak volumes about the pulling power of the Premier League if a player who had just lifted a fourth straight league title at a major European club would be more than willing to duke it out merely for a mid-table finish in England.
Yet, according to the Birmingham Mail, that is exactly what West Brom will be hoping as they attempt to lure Jardel from Portuguese champions Benfica.
The newspaper reports that The Lions have already rejected a bid from Tony Pulis’ side but it appears that they are planning to return with a fresh offer for the Brazilian centre-back.
With Jonas Olsson (below) returning to Sweden recently and Gareth McAuley aged 37, West Brom need reinforcements at the back and Jardel, an old-school central defender renowned for his aerial presence, may be the perfect addition – even if injuries have restricted him to just two appearances all season.
Though this is not the first time Jardel has been linked with a move to England in recent months. O Jogo reported last summer that Everton had hoped to end his six year stay at the Estadio da Luz and use him to fill the void left by John Stones’ departure to Manchester City.
Sticking with The Toffees
Whether The Toffees will still be interested, however, is another matter entirely. If manager Ronald Koeman wants a long-term successor for ageing duo Ashley Williams and Phil Jagielka, the 31-year-old, injury-stricken Jardel hardly jumps off the page.
Furthermore, it appears that Everton have their eyes set on other, youthful targets such as Michael Keane and Harry Maguire of Burnley and Hull City respectively.
Therefore, it appears that Jardel, who has won 12 titles with Benfica, would be more at home at West Brom.
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