Konyaspor have confirmed that they are in talks to sign former Real Madrid star Isco with Premier League strugglers Everton also linked to the free-agent Spain international, via AS.
If it feels like we’ve been here before, then that’s probably because we have.
Three years ago, Everton completed the eye-catching, marquee signing of James Rodriguez following his departure from the Santiago Bernabeu. But while Carlo Ancelotti was willing to create a space in his system for one of world football’s most mercurial talents, successor Rafael Benitez was not; James’ £200,000-a-week contract terminated around 12 months after this most high-profile of arrivals.
Now, Sean Dyche is closer to Benitez than Ancelotti on the football manager spectrum. More a pragmatist than a purist. The prospect of Isco sharing a dressing room with the gravel-voiced former Burnley boss almost feels like when Al Pacino popped up in Adam Sandler’s Jack and Jill. A collaboration no one saw coming, and no one really wanted.
Everton face Turkey battle to sign former Real Madrid ace Isco
Then again, that has not stopped reports suggesting that Isco, released by Sevilla after a forgettable stint in Andalusia, could end up at Goodison Park. The Times believe that the five-time European Champion is ‘under consideration’.
But, after missing out on Andre Ayew to Nottingham Forest, Everton must make their minds up quickly if they are to avoid seeing another high-profile freebie slip away.
“We are in negotiations with Isco,” Konyaspor’s vice-president Mehmet Akcan explains.
“I can tell you that the talks are going well. We are not yet sure if we have reached an agreement, otherwise we would say so openly. (But) we are doing everything possible to close the signing.”
The Turkish transfer window closes on February 8th. Akcan is confident that contracts will be signed before the deadline passes.
“I think everything will be resolved with Isco, one way or another, as soon as possible. Now, we have an opportunity to close this signing,” Akcan adds. “We are positive.”
Dyche, during his first press conference since replacing Frank Lampard, did not rule out a potential switch for 30-year-old Isco (Liverpool Echo).
He did insist, however, that Everton would do their due diligence before taking a chance on a footballer who, while supremely talented, appears to have been left behind in an age of high-pressing.
“Sometimes, not always, they are (free-agents) for the reason. A reason why they’re not at clubs,” Dyche says. “We’re looking, we’re aware. But (potential signings) they’ve got to affect what we do. It’s not about money, it’s about players who affect what you do.
“Do they fit? Can they do it pretty quickly? We need players who can do it now. What have we go in-house? Are they ready?”
All questions Isco must answer if he wishes for a fresh start in the Premier League.
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