Sky Sports pundit and former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson has shared his scepticism over Everton's reported transfer interest in Senegal striker Boulaye Dia.
The Lowdown: Everton linked with Dia transfer
Last month, it was reported that Everton, alongside fellow Premier League clubs Leeds United, West Ham United and Leicester City, are interested in signing the Villarreal striker.
This season has seen the 26-year-old score six goals and provide two assists in 14 Serie A appearances for Salernitana, where he is currently on loan.
Having now been linked with a move to Goodison Park following his efforts at the World Cup, Robinson has offered his verdict on the possible move.
The Latest: Robinson's verdict on Dia
Speaking to Football Insider, Robinson had this to say about Everton's reported interest in Dia.
He said: "That’s an interesting one. I liked what I saw from him at the World Cup. He is a good striker who knows where the back of the net is. He is also the right age.
"But, would his performances in the World Cup suggest he will be a success in the Premier League? I’m not so sure. It would be a slight risk to take him.
[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/everton-news-8/" title="Everton news!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align="none"]
"Look, he is good enough but it may take him time. I don’t think Everton have time. They need to sign a striker who is ready to go. Someone who will make an immediate impact. They don’t need a player who will take six months to bed in.
"The need for a striker at Everton is glaring obvious. They cannot rely on [Dominic] Calvert-Lewin and [Neal] Maupay to get them the goal, as good as they are."
The Verdict: Worth a punt
Described as a "versatile" player by journalist Josh Bunting on Twitter, Dia has 58 goals to his name throughout his career in 164 club appearances.
With more shots on target (10) in Serie A than any other Salernitana player this season, this highlights the attacking presence he has and what he'd be able to offer Frank Lampard's side.
Bearing in mind how only three clubs have registered fewer shots on target than the Toffees (51) in the league this season, this makes it easy to see why the club have been linked with the Senegal attacker.
Taking all of this into account, regardless of Robinson's doubts over Dia's ability to hit the ground running at Goodison Park, we feel that this could be a gamble worth taking.