‘Everton set sights on Angel Gomes after confirmed exit news’
Everton are plotting a move to sign England international midfielder Angel Gomes after he announced his departure from Lille.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the 24-year-old has emerged to provide a different option in the middle.
While David Moyes wants to add more technical ability to his midfield, there are concerns about Gomes’ physicality and how he would adapt to the Premier League.
Football Insider revealed in March that Tottenham are leading the race for Gomes but have been joined by clubs in France, Spain and Germany for his signature.
Everton feel they would be able to tempt the midfielder with the offer of regular first-team football if they decide he is the right fit for their team this summer.
Everton to make Angel Gomes decision amid new concerns
Brown told Football Insider in 19 February that Moyes wants to sign “the next Iliman Ndiaye” in terms of adding more technically proficient players to balance out his squad.
The former scout, who worked closely with Moyes at West Ham and has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United, explained that Gomes may be better suited elsewhere rather than at Everton.
“I hear Everton have been looking at Angel Gomes,” he told Football Insider.
“They haven’t got many technical players in that squad, and Gomes is certainly one of those, he’s a good passer of the ball and helps to keep possession ticking.
“Whenever he plays, he shows what he is capable of doing and teams have been impressed by that.
“There are a few who have been watching him not just in England but in Europe too.
“Everton lack that type of player, so there’s a clear role for him and they would be able to offer him more regular first-team football than he may get elsewhere.
“But they have a few doubts about him.
“The way they play at the moment, does he fit in with that? Probably not.
“So as much as he would bring that extra technical security to the team, his lack of physicality is going to be an issue for a team like Everton.
“He’s a very pure footballer, and away from football I hear he’s a good lad, so you want to see him do well.
“But I think maybe he would be better suited somewhere other than Everton.”
Chelsea plot move to sign Jarrad Branthwaite
Amid speculation about potential arrivals on Merseyside this summer, several players have been linked with move away from the club.
Brown told Football Insider on 20 May that Chelsea are considering a move for Jarrad Branthwaite as they aim to bolster their defensive options.
However, they are concerned about the cost of landing the centre-back and are instead likely to turn their attentions towards more affordable target.
This comes after Brown told Football Insider in November that Everton would price Branthwaite out of a move with a potential £100million price tag.
For more Everton and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.