According to La Razon, Everton are interested in signing Iddrisu Baba after he saw a move to Real Madrid collapse.
What’s the story?
Well, the Spanish news outlet believe Rafa Benitez wants to bring the 25-year-old to Everton, as he continues to make a name for himself in Spain.
Baba was identified as a replacement for Thomas Partey at Atlético Madrid, although a move failed to materialise.
La Razon add that Baba also had an agreement to join Real Madrid, although that move broke down as well due to agent issues.
The Ghana international has a €45m (£38m) release clause in his contract at RCD Mallorca, so he certainly won’t come cheap for Everton.
Encouragingly for the Toffees, La Razon believe RCD Mallorca are willing to negotiate a sum below that figure.
Baba has a contract until June 2024, and is a key player for the Spanish outfit having made 11 La Liga appearances so far this season.
Will Everton sign Iddrisu Baba?
In our view, the signs are promising.
Baba has a release clause, so if Everton are truly convinced by him, they won’t need to negotiate with RCD Mallorca if they meet the £38m sum.
Additionally, RCD Mallorca have already lined up Baba’s replacement.
La Razon state that Njabulo Blom could be joining the Spanish side in January from Al-Ahly for a sum of just €1m (£851,000).
Clearly, RCD Mallorca are preparing for life after Baba.
If he plays anything like Partey does for Arsenal, Everton must bring the Ghanaian to the Premier League.
Benitez’s midfield is looking extremely thin with few quality options, and a worrying reliance on Abdoulaye Doucoure.
If Baba can help take the weight off the Frenchman, then he would definitely be worth bringing to Merseyside.
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