Italian outlet CM claim Everton are looking at a deal for on-loan Nottingham Forest defender Renan Lodi with the player currently at the City Ground on a loan-to-buy agreement from Atletico Madrid – which includes a £25m clause.
Lodi, 24, joined Forest towards the end of the summer window on a loan-to-buy deal. The Mail reports that Forest have spent £4.7million up front to bring in the 16-time Brazil star – and included an option to make it permanent for £25m.
Since his move, he has become first choice on the left of Forest’s defence. Whether that is playing as a wing-back, or as a left-back in a four-man defence. He has started 15 of a possible 20 Premier League games for Steve Cooper’s side.
However, it is unclear if Forest will make his move permanent. He has a contract at Atletico Madrid until the summer of 2026. The report claims that Everton are considering a move to keep him in the Premier League, if Forest do not.
Everton looking at deal for on-loan Nottingham Forest defender Lodi
Everton have Vitalii Mykolenko on the left of their defence, while Ruben Vinagre is on loan from Sporting Lisbon. The Toffees need to strengthen their left-back options – perhaps, with a more-experienced head. Lodi is certainly that.
Still only 24, Lodi has clocked up 118 games for Atleti, 50 in his home country and now 20 for Forest. As well as, 16 caps for Brazil. More than 200 games for club and country at what is still an early stage of his professional career.
Lodi has proved that he is easily good enough to be a starting left-back for Premier League clubs. The issue Everton have ahead of the summer window is, which division will they be in? They currently sit in the relegation zone.
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