90Min claim Everton are set to complete the signing of Blackburn Rovers star Ben Brereton-Diaz after putting together a package of £17.5million up front, and £2.5million in add-ons – beating a whole host of Premier League rivals.
The 23-year-old striker is likely to leave Blackburn this summer, after entering the final 12 months of his contract. He was in stunning form last term, scoring 22 goals in 37 Championship appearances. He already has two goals this term.
Not only has his Championship form attracted admirers. His exploits with Chile has also impressed, scoring four goals in 14 caps for his country. 90Min claim Everton are set to win the race for the striker, with an initial fee of £17.5million.
Another £2.5million in add-ons will take the overall package to £20million. Everton have been in the market for a striker and it seems Frank Lampard’s men have finally got their man. Plenty of other clubs wanted Brereton-Diaz, too.
Indeed, the Chile ace had interest from foreign sides including Sevilla and Nice. Meanwhile, Premier League clubs such as Leeds, West Ham, Wolves, Southampton and Bournemouth were also showing interest. Everton are in pole position.
Everton set to complete signing of Brereton-Diaz, ahead of Leeds
It is a statement from Everton. Brereton-Diaz is a top, top striker with proven pedigree at both club level, and for his country. While it is a very good addition, it is also a statement given the sides Everton have beaten to his signature.
Perhaps, it is the current injury to Dom Calvert-Lewin that has attracted Brereton-Diaz. It gives him the chance to start and make his mark, giving him the chance to establish himself in the starting XI before Calvert-Lewin returns.
Leeds need a striker – but competition for Rodrigo and Patrick Bamford. Similarly, West Ham want competition for Michail Antonio and Gianluca Scamacca. Everton seems like a good move for Brereton-Diaz, this summer.
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