Everton boss Rafael Benitez would like to sign Monaco playmaker Aleksandr Golovin – but the price tag on him could rule out a move.
The Athletic claim that Benitez will be leading recruitment in January after the exit of Marcel Brands.
Benitez is understood to be a big fan of Monaco ace Golovin and would love to bring him to Goodison Park.
However, it’s felt that Monaco’s asking price on Golovin would be too high for Everton, potentially ruling out a January deal.
Everton ultimately need to sell in order to bring players in, especially after agreeing to sign Dynamo Kiev left back Vitaliy Mykolenko.
There may not be money in the Everton budget for Golovin now, with Benitez potentially missing out.
Who is Everton target Aleksandr Golovin?
Golovin, 25, came through the CSKA Moscow ranks before starring at the 2018 World Cup. That prompted Monaco into striking a £26.5million deal.
Those World Cup displays really put Golovin on the map, prompting Ian Wright to suggest that he ‘just has everything’ as a midfielder.
The Russian playmaker has recorded 16 goals and 22 assists in 114 games for Monaco, playing mostly as an attacking midfielder.
Intriguingly, Benitez wanted Golovin at Newcastle back in 2018, so his interest at Everton does add up.
You would expect Monaco to demand at least their money back for Golovin, and that just doesn’t fit into the Everton budget right now.
Come the summer though, don’t be surprised if Everton move some money around and go in for Golovin again.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
