According to Alan Nixon, Everton are closing in on the signing of West Ham and Leeds target Ben Brereton Diaz from Blackburn.
What’s the story?
Well, the Toffees look set to lose Anthony Gordon to Chelsea after the 21-year-old made it clear he wants to join Thomas Tuchel at Stamford Bridge, but Frank Lampard appears to have identified a replacement swiftly.
Nixon believes Diaz is now close to joining the Toffees, news which will come as a blow to Jesse Marsch and David Moyes, both of whom wanted to sign the Chile international.
The Hammers even sent a scout to watch the Blackburn No.22 in action during pre-season.
Blackburn have demanded £20m for their talisman, who scored 22 goals in 37 Championship appearances last season.
Everton are also said to be keen on hijacking Newcastle’s £30m move for Joao Pedro, so it remains to be seen if Lampard and Kevin Thelwell – Director of Football at Goodison Park – sign both.
Diaz has began the current campaign in good form, scoring two goals while also providing one assist in five Championship outings so far.
Leeds & West Ham have alternatives after Everton swoop in
As Everton close in on Diaz, there are seemingly other options being pursued by Leeds and West Ham.
In regards to Leeds, they are said to be interested in signing Hwang Hee-chan from Wolves, a forward who worked under Marsch at RB Salzburg.
In West Ham’s case, there is interest in Marseille forward Bamba Dieng – however, Leeds are also monitoring his situation, as he aims to leave the Ligue 1 side this summer.
Additionally – while he isn’t necessarily a forward – the east Londoners have bid for Lucas Paqueta, a player who shone in attacking midfielder for Lyon last season and was consequently named Best Foreign Player in France.
Clearly, Leeds and West Ham are still looking to bolster their squads, so keep an eye on their movements.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
