Everton are reportedly closing in on signing Ben Brereton Diaz from Blackburn Rovers after offering £20 million for the Chilean international.
According to 90 min, Everton are inching closer to signing Ben Brereton Diaz before the summer transfer deadline as Frank Lampard eyes key attacking reinforcements. Blackburn Rovers could be open to accepting the Toffees’ reported proposal worth £20 million, with the striker in his last year.
Everton are seeking necessary attacking reinforcements before the summer transfer window shuts down. Frank Lampard is keen to bolster his squad following increased speculation surrounding the future of Anthony Gordon. Moreover, they have lost Dominic Calver-Lewin to injury, and Richarlison has joined Tottenham.
Lampard started the season’s first three games without a recognised striker, with Anthony Gordon occupying the false-nine role. With the 21-year-old being relentlessly pursued by Chelsea, Everton may use some of the funds from his potential sale to bring in new players.
Brighton & Hove Albion’s Neal Maupay is reportedly close to joining Everton, but Lampard may look to bring in another striker before the window closes. Blackburn Rovers’ Ben Brereton Diaz could be the player to arrive before the month’s end.
Brereton Diaz is in his final contractual year at Blackburn. The striker, who scored 22 goals in 37 Championship outings last season, has refused to commit to his long-term future at the club but signed a year-long extension in May to help Blackburn protect his current value.
Everton have proposed an offer worth £20 million for the Chilean front man, which may be under consideration. The Toffees guarantee at least £17.5 million in base fees, with the rest to be paid in add-ons. Blackburn could be forced to accept such an offer for a player who could be available on a free transfer in 2023.
After his 22-goal exploits in the Championship last season, Brereton Diaz could be considered a good signing, although paying £20 million for someone inexperienced in the Premier League could be a bit much. The Chilean international will be eager to prove his doubters wrong, although it will take ample time to get used to the intensity of the top flight.
Everton are also targeting other strikers, with Rennes’ Serhou Guirassy and Marseille’s Bamba Dieng on their radar as well. They seem intent on bringing Brereton Diaz to Goodison Park as Lampard prepares for a late dash in the transfer window.