Italian outlet TMW claim Atalanta will only entertain a permanent deal worth £17.5million for striker Duvan Zapata this month amid reports Everton are set to open new talks – a move that Frank Lampard needs to strike to save the Toffees.
Zapata, 31, has an incredible goal ratio in Serie A. At least, until this season. He came into the current campaign with stats of 79 goals in 161 appearances – laying on 36 assists. But this term, he has one goal and four assists in 13 games.
The 34-time Colombia star has entered the final 18 months of his contract and his importance to the Atalanta side has reduced. That is due to Zapata’s form this term. He was benched for Atalanta’s last game, an 8-2 win over Salernitana.
Fabrizio Romano says Everton are to hold fresh talks to sign Zapata. Previously this month, Everton wanted to sign the striker on loan – but were told Atalanta wanted a permanent sale. West Ham have made an approach, as per the Mail.
Now, the latest report states that Atalanta only want to sell Zapata permanently this month – for a fee of £17.5m. It remains to be seen if Everton or any clubs are keen – though it is unlikely to be West Ham, who are to sign Danny Ings.
Lampard needs to strike £17.5million Zapata deal to save Everton
The Toffees are staring relegation in the face and lack the firepower in attack to save themselves. Dom Calvert-Lewin is back but he will need time to get back to his best. Everton need a striker that can come in and hit the ground running.
An experienced striker. There are not many better at such a price, than Zapata. A record of one goal in every two. He seems built for the Premier League, renowned for his strength and speed. Good with the ball, and in the air.
A fee of £17.5m is a bargain for Zapata and it is a deal that the Toffees have to complete if Lampard is to stand any chance of keeping Everton out of the bottom three. Failure to land Zapata or a striker similar, and they could go down.
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