Everton may be searching for a new manager, but they also appear to have been chasing a goalkeeper – only to miss out on French talent Yahia Fofana.
Rafael Benitez’s dismal era as Everton boss finally came to an end on Sunday, as he was sacked after a 2-1 defeat to Norwich City.
All the focus is on finding a replacement for Benitez, but Everton will ultimately need one eye on transfers too.
It now seems that Everton fancied signing a young goalkeeper – but have lost out in the race for his signature.
L’Equipe report that Everton were interested in signing Le Havre goalkeeper Yahia Fofana alongside a host of other clubs.
Lyon Nice, Bordeaux, Rennes, Fiorentina, Lazio and Borussia Dortmund had joined Everton in the race for Fofana.
However, it’s now stated that Angers have won the race for Fofana, agreeing a pre-contract agreement for the young stopper.
Out of contract at Le Havre this summer, Fofana is free to go this summer and able to sign a deal elsewhere.
Angers have handed Fofana a four-year deal, winning the race as the young goalkeeper prepares to move this summer.
Fofana, 21, has only played 26 times for Le Havre’s first team but he has shown huge potential.
A huge presence at 6ft 4in tall, Fofana looks to be a star of the future – and has admitted that he wants to be like Manuel Neuer.
Everton do have a settled first-choice goalkeeper in Jordan Pickford, as well as two veteran backups in Asmir Begovic and Andy Lonergan.
Yet with Joao Virginia failing to really live up to his early potential, Everton may be searching for a young stopper of the future.
Fofana could have been that player, but Everton have missed out on securing their first summer signing months in advance.
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