Everton are reportedly plotting a raid of Premier League rivals Chelsea for the signing of Fikayo Tomori, as they seek to reinforce their backline.
As per a report from the London Evening Standard, Chelsea youngster Fikayo Tomori has emerged as a transfer target for Everton. The Toffees are exploring the possibility of signing the defender on a season-long loan deal having failed to land primary target Kurt Zouma from the Blues.
Zouma had been on Everton’s radar after a successful loan spell during the 2018-19 campaign. However, the Frenchman will not be allowed to leave by Chelsea this summer, with newly-appointed manager Frank Lampard claiming that the centre-back is a major part of his plans for the season ahead.
This has led to the Merseysiders considering a potential loan deal to bring another Chelsea defender, Fikayo Tomori, to Goodison Park for the 2019-20 campaign.
The 21-year-old Tomori is a graduate of the Blues’ youth academy and is held in high regard within the club. Having made his first-team debut back in 2016, the centre-back has had loan stints at Brighton & Hove Albion (Jan-May 2017), Hull City (2017-18) and most recently at Derby County, where he spent last season under Lampard.
During his time with the Rams, Tomori made a solid impression, racking up 55 appearances across all competitions, with two goals and an assist to show for, as he played a key role in their push for promotion. Back at Chelsea, the youngster has been involved in the pre-season fixtures, but the report claims that he could be allowed to leave on loan this summer.
Chelsea, despite losing veteran defender Gary Cahill, have plenty of options at the heart of the defence with Antonio Rudiger, David Luiz, Andreas Christensen and Zouma, while Cesar Azpilicueta can also play at the centre of the defence. This could restrict Tomori’s game at Stamford Bridge, which is why the Blues are open to allowing him leave on another loan spell to continue his development.
Having lost Zouma and Phil Jagielka this summer, Everton could use some defensive reinforcements and given Tomori’s potential, he has the capability to be a fine addition to their ranks. However, there are a number of clubs lining up a move for the Englishman, with Burnley also reported to be interested in securing his services.
Tomori has two years left on his current contract with Chelsea. The 21-year-old has proven himself to Lampard last season, but could be headed for another temporary spell away from the Bridge in search of regular playing time. But, it remains to be seen if he ends up joining Everton or some other club.
