Everton are plotting a late move for Neal Maupay, who might not play again for Brighton.
According to Alex Crook of talkSPORT, Everton could make a late approach for Neal Maupay, who could be ready to depart Brighton before the current window shuts. The Frenchman is unhappy with his situation since the season began and might have played his last game for the club already.
Neal Maupay has fallen down the pecking order at Brighton, which has not pleased the Frenchman. With just under a year left on his contract, the striker may be ready to leave the Seagulls before the window closes.
Graham Potter has preferred to play Danny Welbeck in the first two games of the season and gave no minutes to Maupay, even from the bench in the opener against Manchester United, while axing him altogether from the squad versus Newcastle United. The situation has alarmed the forward, who has begun considering his future. Brighton could be open to a sale if they receive a reasonable sum for him.
Maupay’s contract situation could put him in the bracket of a bargain signing, and hence Everton are reportedly keen on signing the striker. The Toffees could make an eleventh-hour swoop for the Brighton star as Frank Lampard continues to search for a new front man.
#BHAFC striker Neal Maupay looks to have played his last game for the club #NFFC favourites to sign him as per @mcgrathmike but #EFC have also shown some interest. Understand he has been pressing for a move after falling down the pecking order.
— Alex Crook ⚽️??? (@alex_crook) August 13, 2022
Having lost Richarlison to Tottenham and Dominic Calvert-Lewin to injury for a few weeks, Lampard wants a forward who could shore up his attacking line. Rennes star Serhou Guirassy is linked with a move, but the Toffees are only considering a loan move with an option to sign him permanently/
Having spent around €40 million on their latest signing, Amadou Onana, Everton do not have the budget to bring a new striker permanently. A loan move or a bargain signing could be explored, but these options are few and far.
They have considered many players on loan deals, but the reported availability of Maupay may change their stance. The Frenchman could be made available on a bargain deal, and Everton are reportedly willing to explore a late move for the Brighton star.
Nottingham Forest are keen on Maupay and are even said to be closing on his capture. But Everton’s interest could turn the 25-year-old Frenchman’s head towards Merseyside.
Maupay has played over 100 times for Brighton scoring 27 goals and is generally considered a more than decent forward, capable of playing for many Premier League sides. A departure from Brighton does look imminent, and the Seagulls might accept a late offer from Everton than see Maupay leave on a free transfer next summer.
