Everton have seemingly beaten Tottenham and West Ham to the signing of Arnaut Danjuma from Villarreal.
What’s the story?
Well, it was the Daily Mail who claimed that Antonio Conte and David Moyes wanted to sign the Netherlands international, after he lost his place in the starting XI following Unai Emery’s move to Aston Villa.
Now, however, it seems Everton have won the race to sign Danjuma.
Santi Aouna of Foot Mercato believes the £21.3m man has chosen to join the Toffees despite interest from Rennes, as well as Tottenham and West Ham.
Negotiations between Everton and Villarreal are now said to be “underway” as Danjuma looks set to make a return to English football, having previously played on these shores for Bournemouth.
The Villarreal No.9 has scored six goals in 17 appearances across all competitions so far this season.
Unfortunately, Danjuma has been left on the bench in two of Villarreal’s last three La Liga outings as Quique Setién opts to leave the Dutchman out.
Everton beat Tottenham & West Ham to a potential game changer
In our view, this could be a transformative signing for Everton.
Last season, Danjuma was among the hottest forwards in Europe at one stage, even winning the Man of the Match award in a Champions League clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford despite losing 2-1.
Rafael van der Vaart has even compared the 25-year-old to Arjen Robben, which speaks volumes about his talent.
If Frank Lampard can help the Villarreal outcast rediscover his best form, he could have an exceptional attacking option on his hands for the second half of the campaign.
Everton currently find themselves 19th in the Premier League, one point from safety, so the injection of quality that Danjuma should bring was desperately needed.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as negotiations continue.
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