Everton are reportedly providing competition to Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur in the pursuit of Stefan de Vrij.
According to 90 min, Everton are among the clubs interested in the services of Stefan de Vrij. The Inter Milan defender is all set to leave the club in the near future as he looks to take the next step in his career. In addition to the Toffees, he is courted by a number of other English clubs, including Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur.
All of the Premier League outfits have been given the opportunity to sign de Vrij, whose current contract at Inter expires in 2023. The Nerazzurri are keen on keeping hold of his services, but the Dutchman is seeking a new challenge. He is reportedly seeking more information about Tottenham, especially with new coach Antonio Conte eyeing a reunion in North London.
It appears the former Lazio defender has been identified as an ideal man to fill the leadership void in the Tottenham defence after they had to part ways with both Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld in recent years. He fits the bill well, given his years of experience at the highest level of football, coupled with his excellent relationship with Conte.
Newcastle United are not far behind either in the pursuit of Stefan de Vrij. New coach Eddie Howe has apparently identified defence as a major weakness and wants to sign a top-class centre-back in the upcoming January transfer window.
They have set their sights on de Vrij due to his leadership qualities. Having helped the team win the Scudetto last season, the Dutchman can offer the winning mentality, which could be critical as Newcastle United look to become a footballing powerhouse under their new owners.
Everton’s interest in the experienced defender, meanwhile, most likely stems from the uncertainty surrounding the future of Yerry Mina. The Colombian international has never really established himself at Goodison Park and is now a target for AC Milan. His exit could prompt Rafael Benitez to seek a move for a new defender in January.
The Spanish tactician was concerned with his team’s defensive depth even before the start of the season. The potential arrival of someone like de Vrij, in that regard, could significantly boost Everton’s solidity at the back and help them become a more stable defensive unit. So, amid intense competition for his services, it remains to be seen if the 29-year-old swaps Inter Milan for a Premier League club.