Everton are reportedly interested in Leeds left back Charlie Taylor.
According to The Mirror, Everton are interested in signing Leeds United left back Charlie Taylor – but face competition from Stoke City and West Bromwich Albion.
Taylor, 23, has come up through the ranks at Leeds, working his way through the youth sides at Elland Road before becoming a first-team star after loan spells with Bradford City, York City, Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Fleetwood Town.
Leeds United’s Charlie Taylor
A left back who can also play on the left of midfield, Taylor has now racked up 90 appearances for Leeds, and has grasped his chance having been brought into the side following Stephen Warnock’s move to Derby County in 2015.
Taylor is likely to play a huge part for Leeds this season as they chase a return to the Premier League, but he looks set to leave Elland Road in 2017, either in January or next summer, when his contract expires.
General view outside the stadium before the match – Goodison Park
There appears to be little to no chance of Taylor extending his deal with Leeds, and Premier League teams appear to be preparing to try and tempt Leeds into selling Taylor, despite the club confirming on their official website in August that they had rejected a transfer request from the defender.
Now, The Mirror report that, whilst West Bromwich Albion are looking to sign Taylor for £5m, Everton have also entered the race for his signature during the January transfer window.
The Toffees have seen Leighton Baines struggle with injuries this season, and whilst Bryan Oviedo has been decent cover, Ronald Koeman may see Taylor as the long-term successor to Baines at Goodison Park.
Charlie Taylor of Leeds United (R) in action with Modou Sougou of Sheffield Wednesday
Everton have also loaned out Brendan Galloway and Luke Garbutt to West Brom and Wigan respectively, but with Galloway capable of playing at centre back and Garbutt suggesting to the Liverpool Echo last month that he could leave permanently, a move for Taylor may make some sense.
Whether they – or any other Premier League club – can tempt promotion-chasing Leeds into selling Taylor remains to be seen, but with his contract expiring next summer, Leeds may end up being persuaded to cash in.
Would you let Taylor sign for Everton in January?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
