Everton are reportedly leading the race for Genoa right back Brooke Norton-Cuffy ahead of the summer window following his decision to stay in January.
According to Tutto Napoli, Brooke Norton-Cuffy could be back in the Premier League next season with Everton leading the race ahead of the summer. The Toffees had shown an interest in the Genoa full-back in January alongside other teams, including a few from Serie A, but he chose to stay and develop his game under Daniele De Rossi
Brooke Norton-Cuffy has managed to build a reputation of being a solid right-back over in Serie A, after some key stints in England. The former Arsenal academy product never made a senior appearance for the north Londoners, but he did impress on loan during spells at Millwall, Coventry City, Lincoln City and Rotherham United.
The 22-year-old Serie A wide man was eventually sold to Genoa for a paltry price, and since his move there, he has developed into a top performer with Daniele De Rossi’s side. He is seen as an important part of the team, which may have seen the club convince him to stay during the January window when there was rising interest from clubs.
Everton were one of those teams interested, with David Moyes keen on strengthening the right-back position owing to a shortage of options there. The Toffees have been playing with Jake O’Brien as their option there, with Nathan Patterson and Seamus Coleman struggling with fitness issues this season.
Everton were not alone, with West Ham and Newcastle United also looking at the right-back, but suffered disappointment in the chase. Norton-Cuffy chose to continue with Genoa for the remainder of the season, but he could be ready for a summer move.
Everton in pole position for Brooke Norton-Cuffy?
As per the report, Everton are in pole position in the race for Norton-Cuffy ahead of the summer. The report states talk of a €16-17 million fee during the January window, but Genoa are likely to demand slightly more than that.
The 22-year-old Serie A wide man could be a smart addition for Everton if they can get a deal in place for the defender. With age on his side, the switch to Merseyside will allow Norton-Cuffy to establish himself in the Premier League in a big way, and that could be vital for his career as well as decision-making for the immediate future.
