TalkSPORT transfer reporter Alex Crook has shed some light on Everton's pursuit of Watford striker Emmanuel Dennis.
The lowdown: Standout striker
Signed from Belgian top-flight outfit Club Brugge in June 2021, Dennis enjoyed a stellar first campaign in the Premier League, particularly shining against the Toffees whilst scoring once and providing two assists in a humbling 5-2 defeat at Goodison Park for the Merseysiders.
Despite further such exploits from the 24-year-old, Watford were ultimately relegated, and the Nigeria international has since been extensively linked with a move away from Vicarage Road.
Frank Lampard is in search of additional firepower after losing Richarlison to Tottenham, and one well-informed onlooker has reaffirmed the admiration...
The latest: Everton 'also looking' at Dennis
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Crook claimed that Everton were indeed in the mix to sign Dennis, although they face completion from a mega-rich domestic rival.
He said: “Everton are also looking at Dennis as well. Neither club has made a formal bid yet. Watford are hoping for £25m with Newcastle valuing Dennis a bit lower.”
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The verdict: Smart move
Should Everton's director of football Kevin Thelwell mastermind this deal, it would be a sensational coup given Dennis' outstanding versatility, and it would go some distance to replicating what Richarlison had to offer.
Although the Nigerian was unable to prevent Watford from dropping out of the top flight, the forward still pitched in with 10 goals and six assists in 33 Premier League appearances last term.
In addition, he was dubbed an 'absolutely stunning player' by journalist Josh Bunting following a 6.80 Sofascore-rated performance against West Ham containing one goal, two shots on target and five successful duels.
That form, combined with the affordable £25m asking price, makes Dennis an ideal candidate to bolster the Goodison Park ranks this summer and offer much-needed attacking impetus to Everton's squad.