Everton have reportedly decided to pull out of the race to sign Emmanuel Dennis, who is also a target for Newcastle and West Ham United this summer.
According to Football Insider, Everton will not launch a summer swoop for Emmanuel Dennis, who will leave Vicarage Road if a sizable offer arrives this summer. In particular, three Premier League clubs, including West Ham United and Newcastle United, have been keeping tabs on the relegated forward, but it seems Everton have opted out of the race.
Everton have been in the market for a striker, especially after the departure of Richarlison, who has joined Tottenham. As such, Dennis is understood to be among the names on the Toffees’ shortlist of replacements for the Brazil international. Many outlets even reported that Everton are seriously considering a move for the Nigerian international, who could be available for around £20 million.
However, that does not appear to be the case anymore, as per Football Insider, who claims that Everton are not currently pursuing Dennis, even though Watford’s sporting director, Cristiano Giaretta, has revealed that Dennis will leave the club if the right offer arrives this summer.
To some extent, this is inevitable given how poor Everton’s financial situation is at the moment, despite Richarlison for a hefty sum. On paper, targeting someone like Dennis makes sense as he is available for a relatively affordable fee and is keen to return to the top-flight after Watford’s relegation to the EFL Championship.
However, with funds tight, it seems the Everton chiefs are looking only for loan signings or free agents, with Armando Broja touted to be one of the targets. Everton’s decision to drop the pursuit of Dennis effectively makes West Ham United and Newcastle United the favourites to secure the services of the Nigerian international.
The 24-year-old forward scored ten times and claimed six assists in 35 games last season – his debut campaign in English football – and looks like he would be a useful option at either the London Stadium or St. James’ Park.
West Ham United’s hopes of signing Arnaut Danjuma now appear to be over after the player ruled out a move to the London Stadium. Dennis could be a like-for-like alternative thanks to his versatility to operate in a number of attacking positions, and he would be an excellent cover for star striker Michail Antonio.
The Nigerian is at a good age and a mazy dribbler with powerful afterburners and potent finishing. Dennis is intelligent at creating space for others and is strong defensively as well. As for Newcastle, they are actively looking at alternative striker targets as they failed to get a deal over the line for Hugo Ekitike.
While Amine Gouiri and Armando Broja have since emerged as possible targets, Dennis has proven himself as a versatile striker, known for his physicality, pace and relentless work rate. Above all, he would be a far cheaper option than the aforementioned names, allowing Newcastle to spend big in other areas.