Report: Everton now in talks to sign £44,000-a-week Tottenham target who Guardiola loves

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According to The Athletic, Everton are now in talks with Burnley over a deal to sign Tottenham target Maxwel Cornet.

What’s the story?

Well, the Ivory Coast international shone in the Premier League last season, in what was his debut campaign at Turf Moor following a £12.85m move from Lyon.

Unfortunately, Cornet’s nine Premier League goals – a very impressive tally in a rigid Burnley side – could not keep the Clarets in the top-flight, as they suffered relegation by three points.

The 25-year-old hinted that he would stay at Turf Moor, although now, Everton are the most likely destination for the rapid forward, who saw a £17.5m release clause in his contract become active following relegation to the Championship.

The Athletic believe Everton and Burnley are yet to come to an agreement, but there is optimism that Cornet will become the second signing of the summer for Frank Lampard.

So far, only James Tarkowski – who was also part of the Burnley side last term – has arrived at Goodison Park.

Antonio Conte, as aforesaid, is also keen to sign Cornet, who Pep Guardiola has expressed his admiration for in the past.

Speaking after the Ivorian scored twice for Lyon against the Citizens in the Champions League, the Spaniard said: “I was very impressed by the talent of Maxwel Cornet.”

Everton can get revenge on Tottenham

In our view, Everton can get revenge on Tottenham for pinching Richarlison if they beat the north Londoners to Cornet’s signature.

Conte’s signing of the £60m Brazilian has left a huge hole in Lampard’s attack, although the Burnley No.20 would be an excellent replacement.

At 25, Cornet is the same age as Richarlison, and only scored one less goal than the South American’s haul of ten in the Premier League last season.

In that respect, signing the £44,000-a-week man for just £17.5m, while making £60m on Richarlison, would be terrific business from the Toffees.

With Tarkowski also arriving on a free transfer, Everton are making some smart decisions this summer – now, they must get a deal over the line, in order to focus on other sensible targets such as Morgan Gibbs-White.