Everton could blow Leeds away and agree 30-year-old deal
Everton have entered the race to sign West Ham star Tomas Soucek ahead of the summer transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that David Moyes is keen on a reunion with the 30-year-old after the success of their time together at the London Stadium.
Soucek, who scored his eighth Premier League goal of the season as West Ham lost to Brighton on 26 April, could become available as part of a squad overhaul under Graham Potter.
The boss is aiming to reduce the average age of his squad this summer, although a decision has not yet been made with his contract set to run until 2027.
Football Insider revealed on 25 April that West Ham could accept £10million offers for Soucek, with newly-promoted Leeds United keeping an eye on his situation.
However, Everton are believed to be the front-runners for his signature thanks to a strong relationship with Moyes and their ambitious Premier League aims.
Everton plot Tomas Soucek swoop after Abdoulaye Doucoure twist
As Everton prepare to move into the new Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium, they are also eyeing major improvements to Moyes’ squad in the transfer market.
Football Insider revealed on 14 April that Moyes will be given funds to transform Everton when the window opens, with a number of positions eyed for improvements.
One of those positions is in midfield, where a reunion with Soucek is now being considered given his physicality, work-rate and consistency on the pitch.
The Czech Republic international is also being eyed as an alternative to Abdoulaye Doucoure, who could leave Everton when his contract expires this summer.
Football Insider revealed that Everton plan to hold contract talks with Doucoure before the season ends, but his future at the club remains up in the air.
Chris Rigg update emerges as David Moyes eyes Sunderland star
Another name on Moyes’ list of midfield targets is Sunderland star Chris Rigg, who looks likely to leave the Stadium of Light if they fail in their bid for promotion.
Former Sunderland chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Everton are leading the race to sign Rigg, ahead of the likes of Man United.
Alongside Everton and Man United, Chelsea, Tottenham, West Ham and Crystal Palace have all been keeping an eye on the 17-year-old’s performances this season.
Brown told Football Insider in November that Sunderland cannot resist big-money offers for Rigg if they remain in the Championship next season.
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