Everton are reportedly ready to trigger Maxwel Cornet’s €21 million release clause this summer.
According to a report by French outlet Foot Mercato, Everton are weighing up a move for Maxwel Cornet. The 25-year-old Burnley attacker has emerged as a top target for the Merseyside giants this summer as Frank Lampard looks to shore up his options in the wide attacking department.
Cornet himself is prepared to leave Burnley after the Clarets were relegated from the Premier League last term. The attacker apparently has a release clause worth €21 million in his contract, which is likely to be activated by Everton this summer.
Formerly of Lyon, Cornet joined Burnley last summer, in what was one of the most shocking deals of 2021. But contrary to expectations, the 25-year-old Ivory Coast international made a telling impact at Turf Moor, emerging as the lone bright spark in an otherwise dire campaign for the Clarets.
Cornet’s tally of nine goals and one assist did indeed play a key role in giving Burnley a fighting chance, although it was not enough to help them avoid the wrath of relegation. And with the prospect of Championship football looming, the attacker is set to depart Turf Moor, most likely in favour of a switch to Everton.
The Merseyside giants have endured a difficult summer so far, with star player Richarlison joining Tottenham Hotspur. Fabian Delph has left Everton as well, along with Gylfi Sigurdsson, whereas Donny van de Beek has returned to Manchester United following the end of his loan spell.
It has left Everton devoid of options in the creative and attacking departments. As such, Lampard is keen on resolving the issue by bagging the services of Maxwel Cornet. Although the Ivorian is not a traditional playmaker, his explosive style of play, coupled with his productivity makes him an ideal cog in the final third, prompting Everton to open talks to sign him.
Moreover, the former Lyon starlet is extremely versatile. Despite being a left winger, the 25-year-old can operate as a secondary forward and even as a left-back. It should make Cornet a handy option for coach Vincent Kompany, although Everton are already on the hunt for a new left-back as well, notably targeting Ajax starlet Anass Salah-Eddine.
