'That's What Ancelotti Brings' - Exclusive: Pundit reacts to Everton swoop for CL winner
Everton have been linked with Real Madrid's Isco, but the Toffees can't afford to carry another passenger with James Rodrguez in the team.
That is according to ex-Spurs, Villa and Leeds full-back Alan Hutton, speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Adam Williams.
The four-time Champions League winner is said to be on his way in the January transfer window after falling down the pecking order at the Bernabeu, with Everton a possible destination according to the Sun.
Hutton says the 28-year-old's talent is undeniable, but that a Goodison Park move would prove too much of a strain on the defensive side of Carlo Ancelotti's game due to the presence of the another former Real Madrid player, James Rodriguez.
He put the question to Football Insider: "Does he fit into that team, that style of play? We all know how talented he is and what he can bring.
"But I think if you have James Rodriguez playing and Isco as well, it would be too attack-based.
"I think when you've got those players who don't track back, Everton have found it difficult down his [Rodriguez's] side. Teams have exploited that space because he's not a willing runner.
"Years gone by you could have that maverick player who was allowed to just roam about and do what he wants.
"But nowadays all the teams are fit, all the teams are full of runners, and if you're carrying a passenger, you will struggle
"However, it doesn't surprise me that there are big names floating about.
"That's what Ancelotti brings you. Do we really think Rodriguez and Richarlison and these kinds of guys would have gone to Everton if he wasn't in charge?"
Everton are not the only club said to be on the prowl for the 38-time Spain international.
Arsenal – a side in dire need of a creative player – are also said to be interested, and so Everton might face stiff competition for his signature.