The Everton fans in the Transfer Tavern are feeling rather optimistic about the season ahead…
Defeat at Chelsea over the weekend aside, it has been a strong start to the season for the Toffees. Progression in the Europa League has been a highlight, whilst they very nearly managed to beat Pep Guardiola’s side be it not for a late Raheem Sterling strike.
Whilst Romelu Lukaku has been sold, top players like Wayne Rooney and Jordan Pickford have been brought in, and that leaves a real reason for optimism at Old Trafford.
Still, there is much more work to be done before Ronald Koeman can truly say that his side is capable of challenging at the top, and it’s clear that a couple more signings before Thursday’s deadline would not go amiss.
It appears as though Everton are working to that end at present, with ESPN reporting, as per sources close to the club, that the Toffees are keen on a move for Swansea City forward Fernando Llorente. Chelsea are reportedly keen on a move, but Everton’s desire to sign a new forward has led them to the veteran striker – and so they could pose a problem for the Blues as Conte continues to try and get his man.
Llorente bagged 15 league goals last season, proving that age is just a number. Despite being in his 30s, he’s still scoring goals like he was in his pomp, and so he would certainly bag goals for Everton were he to move.
Landlord’s Verdict
Llorente is a key player at Swansea, and so Paul Clement won’t want him to leave. That being said, with Tammy Abraham impressing, the Swans may be slightly more receptive to a departure now than they were 6 months ago.
He’d be a decent fit at Everton, not least by helping to add a bit of experience to a largely inexperienced first team.
If Swansea do decide to sell, the prospect of regular football could tempt Llorente – potentially giving them a head start on Chelsea, though the idea of working with Antonio Conte could be hard for the Spaniard to turn down.
With time running out, this deal has deadline day saga written all over it.
Everton fans – thoughts?
Let us know below!
