It’s seven years since The Toffees nearly secured a deal for the Argentine but they could be second time lucky.
Everton could finally secure the marquee signing they’ve been waiting for as Financial Fair Play forcing Inter Milan to sell playmaker Ever Banega, Calciomercato report.
The Argentine international only arrived at the San Siro in the summer after the expiration of his contract with Sevilla, where he got his stalling career back on track and lifted two consecutive Europa League titles, but is yet to stamp his authority on the Inter midfield.
Banega was dropped by new coach Stefano Pioli for the Milan derby in November and only came on for the final two minutes in the 2-0 win against Genoa last time out.
Consequently, Calciomercato claim that Inter could sacrifice a player that looked certain to rejuvenate the fallen giants’ midfield as early as January, with the club needing to raise between 25 and 30 million euros to balance the books.
According to The Sun, Everton opened negotiations over an £8 million move for one of the world’s most complete midfielders earlier in the week, with the potential move going some way to making up for the club missing out on the likes of Axel Witsel and Moussa Sissoko in the summer.
A supreme all-rounder with the ability to flit effortlessly between destructive and creative roles, Banega was the beating heart of an impressive Sevilla side over the last two seasons and arguably the best midfielder in La Liga outside of Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Yet, Everton could have added him to their ranks a lot sooner, with David Moyes securing a work permit for the then 21-year-old back in 2009 after Mikel Arteta was ruled out for a prolonged period.
According to the Daily Mail, however, former club Valencia then pulled out of a deal after failing to secure any replacements but, seven years on, Everton could finally get their man.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
