Report: Everton targeting Thiago Mendes, but only if Gueye leaves this month

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Everton are reportedly keen on Lille midfielder Thiago Mendes.

According to Telefoot, Everton would be interested in signing Lille midfielder Thiago Mendes should Idrissa Gueye leave the club this month.

The Toffees weren’t expected to be in the market for new faces this month after such a busy summer, but they could be forced into the market.

Midfielder Gueye, landed by former director of football Steve Walsh, has starred at Goodison Park since a 2016 move from Aston Villa.

Now though, Paris Saint-Germain are keen on luring the ex-Lille man back to France this month, meaning Everton have started to identify potential replacements.

Telefoot report that, whilst PSG are keen on Lille’s Thiago Mendes, if they sign Gueye, then Everton are interested in signing the Brazilian as Gueye’s successor.

Mendes, 26, joined Lille from Sao Paulo in 2017, and has been a key part of their team ever since, whilst picking up a goal and an assist this season.

Playing in a similar way to Gueye with his energy and box-to-box ability, Mendes could slot into Gueye’s role whilst teaming up with compatriots Bernard and Richarlison.

Lille are understood to want around €30million (£27million) for Mendes this month, and with the PSG rumours for Gueye ramping up, Mendes is a name Everton fans may need to keep an eye on.