Everton are reportedly interested in making a move for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Bruno Fernandes as Marco Silva looks to improve his squad, following a string of poor results.
According to Portuguese publication, A Bola, Everton and particularly Silva have been impressed with Fernandes’ showing for Sporting in this season’s Europa League, while he also has six goals and five assists in the Portuguese league.
The 24-year-old, however, is believed to have a whopping release clause of around £90m, but given Everton’s ability to spend big in recent transfer windows, Fernandes could soon be a Toffee player if all terms are agreed by the two parties.
Should that happen, Silva could then have an interesting selection headache on his hands as to where he fits the Portuguese international into his team.
The addition should offer some competition to the likes of Gylfi Sigurdsson and Andre Gomes.
Sigurdsson has been somewhat inconsistent this season, despite being an important player to the Everton setup. In Silva’s current formation, where Sigurdsson plays just behind Richarlison in the number ten role, Fernandes might add something different to the Icelandic creator, should he occupy the same position.
It is unlikely, though, to see Silva demote the former Swansea City to the bench in that case, but the manager will be forced to reposition some of his players to accommodate Fernandes.
The versatility and skill of Fernandes has made him a bright young talent in European football this season, while his ability to find players in space has also been highly beneficial to Sporting.
Another asset of him is the fact that he is more than capable of playing off both feet and he is equally comfortable to make crosses from his weaker left foot.
Fernandes could be just the player Silva needs to rejuvenate his Everton troops and bring much-needed confidence into the camp.
The Toffees managed to progress to the next round of the FA Cup following a 2-1 victory over Lincoln City on Saturday, but they will need to show a quick turnaround in the Premier League after consecutive defeats to Burnley and Leicester City.
About the Author
