It looked certain at one point that RB Leipzig would exercise their option to buy Patrik Schick from Roma permanently this summer. Timo Werner’s departure increased the need for a new striker and the Czech seemed the ideal option.
Leipzig had an option to sign him permanently for £26.3 million but they chose not to (Corriere dello Sport). Many felt that the Bundesliga giants were looking to sign him for a lower fee, which made sense considering the current financial climate.
Schick wanted a move to Leipzig himself. The £22 million-rated Roma striker admitted that he wanted to make his loan move permanent because he believed in the team, the coach’s philosophy and because they were a Champions League club. (BILD)
All things pointed towards a permanent transfer from Roma to Leipzig but it now looks like the deal has fallen through. BILD claim today that the Germans have rejected an opportunity to sign him this summer.
Schick is now on his way back to Roma but the Italians allegedly don’t want him either. The striker will be on the market this summer and, if previous reports are anything to go by, Everton and Newcastle United will be delighted with Leipzig’s decision.
Chance for Everton and Newcastle United
Corriere dello Sport claimed in June that the two Premier League sides were the ‘real suitors’ for Schick’s signature this summer. The Czech, like all strikers would prefer to play for a Champions League side, but he might just have to settle for a smaller club.
Newcastle desperately need a new striker. Joelinton’s big-money move hasn’t worked out at all, while Dwight Gayle is not the answer to their goal-scoring woes either.
Everton, on the other hand, have enough quality up front with Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison. The duo have both had fantastic seasons but it makes sense to bring a proper number nine in.
Richarlison is naturally a winger and him moving up top has created a hole on Everton’s left flank. Signing someone like Schick would allow the Brazilian to drop back to his natural position, where he was so good for the Toffees in his debut campaign.
Leipzig allegedly dropping out of the race for Schick is brilliant news for interested clubs. However, it will still take some doing for Everton or Newcastle to convince him to join them, especially if clubs in a European competition express interest of their own.
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