Everton have emerged as the favourites to sign Udinese defender Rodrigo Becao this summer, according to reports.
The Lowdown: January interest
The Toffees have conceded 38 goals in the Premier League this season which has contributed to them being in a relegation battle so reinforcements will definitely be required to sure up the backline ahead of the new term.
The Brazilian has now entered the final 18 months of his contract at the Dacia Arena and being his side’s top-performing defensive player, has caught the eye of Sean Dyche, but not for the first time.
The Daily Mail report that the manager showed an interest in the centre-back during the final days of the January window, and despite a deal failing to materialise at the time, it looks like he’s taking a second bite of the cherry.
The Latest: Everton in pole position?
According to Mondo Udinese (via Sport Witness), Everton are the ‘most talked about’ potential suitor when it comes to Becao finding his next destination.
The Merseysiders are set to face stiff competition from several other unnamed clubs and it’s claimed that the Serie A outfit will demand a fee of €20m (£17m) to part ways with him at the end of the season.
Udinese have already entered the market to start looking for replacements which just shows that they think the 27-year-old will be on the move, quite possibly to Goodison Park.
The Verdict: Massive coup
Becao has been dubbed an ‘impassable’ defender by journalist Bruno Queiroz and it would be a huge coup for Everton should they successfully be able to get a deal for him over the line in the summer.
Standing at 6 foot 2, the colossus currently averages 2.3 aerial wins per league game and ranks in the 97th percentile for most tackles made showing that he’s a threat both on and off the ground.
The Salvador native is also a danger at set pieces having scored two goals and provided one assist so far this season, not to mention that he’s in the 96th percentile for most touches in the attacking penalty area.
Should Dyche sign his target, he would be getting added versatility having operated at right-back once before which makes him a useful player to have in the building.
Becao’s decision will likely be made based on whether the Toffees are able to maintain their top-flight status so it’s important they do everything they can to avoid relegation to give themselves the best chance of attracting new signings.