Everton and Nottingham Forest are reportedly keen on Orlando City striker Cyle Larin.
Cyle Larin
Orlando City manager Jason Kreis has told the Orlando Sentinel that rumours surrounding Cyle Larin’s future with the club are purely speculation right now.
Larin, 21, was the first overall pick in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft, with Orlando City selecting him out of the University of Connecticut, having hit 17 goals in 30 games at college level.
The Canadian hitman has lived up to his billing as the first pick of the draft, having scored 35 goals in just 63 games for Orlando City; a frightening scoring rate from the MLS goal machine.
Unsurprisingly, Larin’s goalscoring exploits in Florida have triggered interest in his signature, with English clubs seemingly interested in luring him away from America.
The Sun reported earlier this week that, with Everton looking for a replacement for star striker Romalu Lukaku this summer, the Toffees have eyed up Larin as a possible summer transfer target.
It was also claimed that Brighton and Hove Albion and Nottingham Forest have both been tracking Larin in the hope of landing him, but the pull of the Premier League with Everton could be appealing.
Now, Orlando City manager Jason Kreis has told the Orlando Sentinel that he’s pleased to see Larin recognised for his impressive goalscoring exploits, and whilst a move to Europe may be on the cards in the future, the talk of a summer move is just speculation right now.
Cyle Larin celebrates scoring for Orlando City
“From my point of view, it’s interesting, because I have the inside information, which tells you it’s really just speculation,” said Kreis. “There’s been nobody coming to us with offers, there’s been nothing formal. And so for us, it’s clearly just that, a lot of talk.”
“He’s playing well, he’s been noticed for it, people are paying attention, and I think that’s a great thing — not only for Cyle but for everybody involved in the league. All of the players, I think, at some point in their careers would like to play in Europe, in front of a bigger stage and for a lot more money. So, if he keeps doing well I would say, then yes, the opportunity would be there. But, at the end of the day, it has to be the right thing for everybody involved. Everybody involved includes Orlando City,” he added.
The Orlando Sentinel’s report added that Larin’s agent held talks with Celtic in January, but the striker didn’t feel it was the right time to move, meaning Everton may hope to have better luck than the Bhoys this summer.
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