Everton told to sign Premier League star to 'lift the midfield' after deal agreed
Everton would be making a very good signing if they are able to secure a deal for Bournemouth midfielder Marcus Tavernier.
That is the opinion of former senior Everton scout, Bryan King, speaking exclusively to Football Insider.
The Toffees have reportedly made an enquiry about the 27-year-old's availability this summer, as they look to further pad David Moyes' midfield.
Tavernier is under contract at Bournemouth until 2029 and would likely cost a sizable figure after enjoying a superb campaign.
The former England youth international scored eight goals and provided four assists in 35 games across all competitions, while appearing in a variety of positions.
Everton completed their fifth permanent signing of the summer this week when they swapped Dwight McNeil for Brennan Johnson, joining Merlin Rohl, Tyrique George, Hayden Hackney and Christian Norgaard.
Everton told to sign 'interesting' Marcus Tavernier
Tavernier joined Bournemouth in 2022, signing from Middlesbrough in a deal worth around £10million.
The midfielder had been with Newcastle United as a youngster, along with his brother, James, but moved to Boro in 2013.
There he eventually became a regular, starring in the Championship before he was picked up by the Cherries.
In recent years, Tavernier has quietly grown to be among the most underappreciated midfielders in the Premier League, and a vital cog in the Bournemouth team.
"He's a gainer in the 25, 26, 27 age, isn't he? So, you know, you're looking at him, again, good age. He's done well," King told Football Insider when asked about Tavernier.
"He can play midfield, he can play wide. You know, he could be an interesting player to bring in with Johnson. He could certainly lift the midfield, couldn't he?
"He's done well at Bournemouth. You know, when you look at Bournemouth's recruitment, it's been very good, hasn't it? I mean, Christ, they've made a lot of money on sale of players. Bringing them in cheapish and selling them for big money."
What Andoni Iraola said about Marcus Tavernier
Bournemouth will attempt to keep hold of Tavernier, and considering the length of his contract, they have little reason to sell.
Should Everton be able to tempt them, however, they will be gaining a player capable of appearing on both wings and in the midfield.
"I think he has been so good for us," former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, who now manages Liverpool, said earlier this year.
"He has played today in the eight, on the left, on the right, as a 10. I think we’ve used him as a left back sometimes.
"I was happy for him, because also this season has made some good numbers, very good attitude. I think he’s one of those players, especially the ones that have been with me the three years, you always make a different bond, different relationship. And Tav is one of those, definitely.”