Everton have reportedly entered the race to sign Real Betis defensive midfielder Guido Rodriguez this summer.
According to journalist Cesar Luis Merlo, Everton have joined the race to sign Real Betis defensive midfielder Guido Rodriguez in the summer transfer window. The 28-year-old Argentine international is on the transfer radar of quite a few English clubs, with the likes of Arsenal and West Ham United also showing interest in securing his services.
Everton are the latest club to enter the pursuit of the midfielder, who joined the Andalusian club in the 2020 winter transfer window from Club America in a €3 million deal. The 28-year-old has since made 100 appearances for Real Betis across all competitions, cementing his spot in the heart of midfield.
Rodriguez has played a crucial part in Real Betis’s sixth and fifth-placed finishes in La Liga over the past couple of seasons. He still has two years remaining on his contract with Betis, but the Spanish club could let the 2021 Copa America winner leave if the right offer is made.
Earlier reports had claimed that Betis are demanding a fee in the region of €30 million, which should not be a problem for the Toffees. But Everton, who recently submitted an approach for the 28-year-old, will have to fend off competition from other interested clubs.
Everton struggled for much of the 2021/22 campaign, finishing 16th in the Premier League table to narrowly avoid relegation. The Merseyside giants are eager to improve in multiple departments, including the midfield.
They currently have Jean-Philippe Gbamin, who spent the second half of the 2021/22 season on loan at CSKA Moscow, and Allan as their two recognised defensive midfield options. Thus, Everton want to sign a player who can shield their defence effectively as they try to leave behind the shortcomings of the last season.
The Toffees have only signed James Tarkowski on a free transfer from Burnley thus far. Everton will be desperate to strengthen their squad following a disappointing pre-season, where they have lost twice and won one match.
The Merseyside outfit went down 2-0 to Arsenal before suffering a humiliating 4-0 defeat at the hands of MLS side Minnesota United. Everton returned to winning ways with a 4-2 victory over Blackpool on Sunday, July 24. It will be interesting to see if they can add to their squad by landing Guido Rodriguez from Real Betis, with the Copa America 2021 winner a viable option.
