Everton will look to successfully sign Belgian midfielder Vadis Odjida-Ofoe in January after a previous deal collapsed on deadline day in August.
David Moyes had agreed a deal to bring the 23-year-old to Goodison Park on loan but FIFA failed to ratify a deal after the required paperwork was reportedly submitted after the deadline.
Since then, there has been much speculation that the Everton boss would again move for the Belgian international once the transfer window reopened. And given the Blues lack of options in the middle of the park, particularly in a holding role it seems increasingly likely that Moyes will attempt to sign the Club Brugge player.
However, it appears it may not be quite so simple as renewing the terms of the previous deal. Brugge have made it clear that any previous agreement is now null and void and it certainly looks as if they will look to capitalise on the midfielders raised profile.
Today, the Sun reported it could take a bid of £5 million to prise Ofoe away from his native Belgium. It is thought the original loan deal was with a view to the player joining Everton on a permanent basis, though not for a fee of that size. Moyes brought in Steven Pienaar, Kevin Mirallas and Bryan Oviedo over the summer and it remains to be seen whether he will be able to offer the kind of money that Club Brugge are expected to demand.
Curiously, there are reports coming out of Italy that the original deal was stalled for legal reasons. If this is the case then it further adds to the complexity of the situation and could leave Moyes frustrated if he misses out on his target for the second time.
However, it seems unlikely that any legal issues would have been kept so quiet. It is perhaps an issue of misinterpretation on the Italian press’ part.
Moyes interest in Ofoe appears to be as strong as ever. It remains to be seen whether Club Brugge will play ball over a new deal.
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