Duvan-Zapata-in-action-for-Atalanta
Everton target Duvan Zapata ‘would be a good fit’ for the club, according to transfer expert Dean Jones.
The Lowdown: Everton targeting Zapata
It was reported earlier this month that Frank Lampard had personally requested the Colombian, with negotiations said to be underway for a player who has not received much game-time for Atalanta this season, completing a full 90 minutes on just two occasions.
The 31-year-old is valued at £25m by the Serie A club, with West Ham United also said to be in the race. However, given that the Hammers have just brought in Danny Ings, they might not be quite so intent now on landing another attacker this month.
The Latest: Zapata would ‘fit’ Everton
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT about a potential Everton swoop for Zapata, Jones claimed that bringing the Colombian to Goodison Park would be good business, but he warned that a deal may not be possible due to the clubs’ differing stances on the desired structure.
The journalist said: “I think that Zapata would be a really good fit for Everton. But, at the moment, it sounds like they want a permanent deal and Everton would really be looking for an initial loan at the very least, so it’s really tough for them to negotiate at the moment.”
[freshpress-quiz id=”418944″]
The Verdict: Get it done
The striker has not been an integral part of the Atalanta team this season, but his scoring record throughout his career speaks for itself, and he seems to possess the ability to fire Everton to safety if he is given a consistent run in the team.
Across 269 games in Serie A, Zapata has netted on 107 occasions, while he has also displayed his creative side by laying on his teammates with 46 assists, averaging well over a goal contribution every other game.
This hints at signs that he could develop a good partnership with Arnaut Danjuma, who is reportedly set to complete his Everton medical soon ahead of a loan move to Goodison Park.
Previously lauded as a ‘freight train of a striker’ by Matteo Bonetti, the 6 foot 3 marksman would no doubt be a threat from set-pieces, with the commentator also describing him as ‘excellent in the air’; and he seems like exactly the type of signing that’s required if the Toffees are to save their Premier League status.
About the Author
