According to Rob Dorsett, Everton are now pushing to sign Leeds target Ben Brereton Diaz after failing to lure Joao Pedro away from Watford.
What’s the story?
Well, Everton attempted a late move to sign the Brazilian from Watford, although the Hornets issued a firm hands-off warning to the Toffees, just as they did to Crystal Palace after an enquiry for Ismaila Sarr.
Now, Frank Lampard and Kevin Thelwell – Director of Football at Goodison Park – have turned their attention to Diaz, who has shone for Blackburn in recent times.
The Chile international – who is also of interest to Leeds – scored 22 goals in 37 Championship appearances last season, and has already registered three goal involvements in six league outings so far this term.
Dorsett – who works for Sky Sports – claims Blackburn would prefer not to sell their No.22 at this stage of the window, but would take an offer in the region of £15m to £20m seriously.
Talks are continuing between Everton and Blackburn.
Fulham have also expressed interest in signing Diaz ahead of tonight’s 11pm deadline after a move for Justin Kluivert collapsed due to work permit reasons.
Leeds could soon join Everton in talks
It appears Jesse Marsch and Victor Orta – Director of Football at Elland Road – prioritised a move to sign Bamba Dieng from Marseille today instead of pushing for Diaz.
A £9m deal was agreed for the Senegal international, although Leeds are now said to be furious after the 22-year-old decided to go back on his word and join OGC Nice.
It means Leeds must return to the drawing board as they look to sign a new forward, and it could see Everton face late competition for Diaz with Orta now presumably scampering for alternatives to Dieng.
Keep an eye on developments involving Diaz, as we would be very surprised if the 23-year-old is still at Blackburn after the 11pm deadline.
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