One of the latest names to be linked with a move to Everton this summer is Sassuolo's Gian Marco Ferrari. 

According to reports from Italy, the Blues are eyeing up a potential swoop for the 28-year-old centre-back as Carlo Ancelotti hopes to bolster his defensive ranks in the upcoming transfer window.

Calciomercato (relayed by Liverpool ECHO), has said Ferrari is likely to demand an asking price of about £9 million.

The Italian has been with current side Sassuolo since 2018, after joining from fellow Serie A club UC Sampdoria. Ferrari has made 221 professional appearances throughout his career and has contributed to 12 goals and four assists (via Transfermarkt).

Everton did well this season to claw their way out of a sticky relegation battle. After the appointment of Ancelotti, the Blues have been on an impressive incline, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison both shining as stand out players for the 2019/20 campaign.

But in order to balance the squad and keep the hardworking forwards happy, the defence must be on a similar wavelength, which it certainly hasn't been. The Toffees have conceded 46 goals this season, which is more than the likes of Watford (44) and Brighton (40). The club must strengthen across the back four if they hope to challenge for the top six next year.

In comparison to Mason Holgate, Yerry Mina and Michael Keane, Ferrari has averaged a much better passing accuracy percentage this season with 91.8%. The Italian has also averaged more interceptions per game (1.5) than Holgate (1.1), Mina (1) and Keane (1.3) – via WhoScored.

After signing a new five year contract, it seems Holgate is the favourite to be leading the back line next season. Teamed up with a veteran of the game who is averaging impressive defensive numbers, the 23-year-old can continue to improve and grow as a centre-back.

At a price of about £9m, Ferrari is one of the more cheaper defensive options out there. Particularly as Everton have stated they will likely only be recruiting on a loan or swap deal basis this summer due to financial difficulties (via Liverpool ECHO). However, a cheap swoop for a senior player could be an exception.

What do you think, Blues? Should Everton look to sign Ferrari this summer? Have your say in the comments!