‘It’s less imminent now’: Boss claims £15m striker isn’t leaving yet despite talks with Lampard

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Everton want Neal Maupay but Brighton and Hove Albion boss Graham Potter says an exit isn’t looking too imminent now.

The Toffees are desperate for a new striker having sold Richarlison to Tottenham Hotspur earlier this summer.

Add in Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s injury and Everton are crying out for a goalscorer to come in and bolster Frank Lampard’s attack.

A number of names have been linked of late and Brighton hitman Maupay is understood to be a key target for Lampard.

Everton want Neal Maupay

The Athletic reported last week that Lampard has spoken directly with Maupay to offer him the move to Goodison Park.

It was noted that Nottingham Forest and Fulham were also in the mix to sign Maupay, whilst Brighton are seeking around £15million.

Forest have seemingly backed away since securing the signing of Morgan Gibbs-White, so Everton and Fulham are left at the front of the queue.

Brighton seem willing to sell after the arrival of Deniz Undav, but a move away no longer seems to be imminent.

Brighton boss Graham Potter has told Sussex World that Maupay’s exit seemed imminent last week but is now looking less immediate.

Potter named Maupay on the bench against West Ham United on Sunday and indicates that the Frenchman will be available for selection until there is a decision to be made about his future.

“It sounded a little more imminent last week but, as we know, with the transfer window, nothing is predictable,” said Potter. “It’s less imminent now. And hence why he is in the squad. I think sometimes you need to realise they’re human beings with families, with careers and lives.”

“If there’s a decision to make they need some time to think about that. But there isn’t a decision now so we’re happy to have him with the squad,” he added.

Potter clearly doesn’t think a deal is happening this week and Everton will now need to ramp it up if they’re going to sign Maupay.

Add in Fulham’s interest and Everton are in danger of missing out here, just when Lampard really needs a striker.

Other names are in the frame and there is still more than a week of the window left to go, but Everton seemed to be on the right track with Maupay last week and it’s now going quiet – something that will worry fans.