Everton have now joined Leeds in the race to bring Fabiano Parisi to the Premier League from Empoli in January.
What’s the story?
Well, it was Tutto Mercato Web who revealed that Leeds want to sign the Italian in January, with his agent – Mario Giuffredi – already admitting that Jesse Marsch wants his client at Elland Road.
He said: “He is of the highest standards. He can aspire to important goals. We had many clubs (showing an interest). Atalanta to Torino to Fiorentina, Leeds and Nice.”
Now, Everton are planning to pinch Parisi from the clutches of Leeds.
According to Pianeta Empoli in Italy, the Toffees are determined to sign the 22-year-old.
Everton are described as the side most serious about signing Parisi, with the Italian news outlet adding that an official bid could also be made shortly.
Interest in the left-back from Leeds and Everton comes after he enjoyed an impressive first half of the campaign, scoring two goals in 14 Serie A appearances to showcase his eye-catching attacking talents.
Pianeta Empoli add that Empoli are looking to receive €15m (£13m) to sell their No.65 in 2023, which does not represent a huge outlay for Leeds and Everton, given the wealth of Premier League sides.
Leeds need Parisi more than Everton
In our view, Parisi should join Leeds if he wants to start on a weekly basis.
Everton spent £17m to sign Vitaliy Mykolenko back in January, which was a significant investment in a bright prospect.
Therefore, it wouldn’t make much sense if they now went out and spent £13m on another promising young left-back.
However, in regards to Leeds, Marsch needs a fresh face in his left-back department, as Pascal Struijk, more commonly used in the centre of defence, has been covering for Junior Firpo on the left.
Therefore, you would imagine that Parisi has a place in the starting XI waiting for him at Elland Road if he chooses Leeds over Everton, but only time will tell what happens.
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