Everton backed to agree Gustavo Hamer deal – O’Rourke
Everton will explore the possibility of signing Sheffield United star Gustavo Hamer this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that the Blades could be forced to sell if they fail to reach the Premier League via the playoffs after missing out on automatic promotion.
Meanwhile, the 27-year-old is believed to be keen to play in English football’s top tier and will weigh up his options if the Blades miss out.
Moyes is keen to add creativity to his side, after former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider Everton want to sign “the next Iliman Ndiaye”.
Hamer is seen as the ideal option for a creative role in the Toffees’ midfield, while his versatility and goalscoring record are also seen as key assets.
This comes after Football Insider revealed that Everton are prepared to back Moyes with funds to transform his starting XI this summer.
Everton target Gus Hamer after Abdoulaye Doucoure latest
Everton have been weighing up a move to sign a new midfielder as the position has emerged among their top targets in recent weeks.
Uncertainty about the future of Abdoulaye Doucoure has left the Toffees planning for replacements to provide both goals and creativity from the middle of the park.
Football Insider revealed on 29 April that Doucoure’s Everton future is up in the air as things stand with no agreement over a new contract despite his desire to sign.
It is believed no decision will be made until the end of the 2024-25 campaign with the club not wanting to rush, but if he leaves he will need replacing.
Alongside Hamer, the Toffees have also considered a move to sign Tomas Soucek, who sources say could leave West Ham for just £10million this summer.
Chris Rigg latest emerges at Sunderland
Another of Everton’s attacking midfield targets ahead of the summer transfer window is Sunderland sensation Chris Rigg in another deal which will hinge on the playoffs.
Brown told Football Insider on 22 April that Everton are leading the race to sign Rigg who is expected to step to the Premier League this summer.
Alongside Everton, Man United, Chelsea, Tottenham, West Ham and Crystal Palace have all been keeping an eye on the midfielder’s performances this season.
Brown told Football Insider in November that Sunderland cannot resist big-money offers for Rigg if they fail in their bid for promotion to the Premier League via the playoffs.
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