Report: Everton pursuit of £20m-rated playmaker takes a twist, PL rivals prepare offer
By Dominic Toner
Hull have joined Everton in the pursuit of Genk playmaker Leon Bailey, according to a report.
The Mail claim that Premier League side Hull are eyeing a move for the 19-year-old in a deal worth £10.3million, but Belgian club Genk value him at £20million.
It is understood that Everton, Chelsea and Liverpool have all been keen on Bailey, but now face competition from the Tigers.
European clubs Roma, Bayer Leverkusen and Napoli have also been interested in Bailey, who is regarded as one of the biggest emerging talents in the continent.
The report details that Hull have put together a package in an attempt to sign him in January.
Bailey is a Jamaican attacker and has been in great form for Belgian top-flight club Genk this season.
The left winger has been highly effective in front of goal this campaign, scoring eight goals and supplying 10 assists in 35 appearances across all competitions.
He has been one of the standout performers in Belgium this season and has managed that playing for mid-table side Genk.
Football Insider verdict:
Everton should seriously consider the £20million price tag that is being mentioned for Bailey. Hull’s imminent offer of £10.3million is way short of the valuation and is unlikely to be accepted by Genk. The Toffees could make a move for Bailey this January as he clearly has the potential to be a star, with several top clubs monitoring his progress. He has proved to be highly useful this season and is only going to continue his development over the next few years. Everton are keen to develop young talents at Goodison Park and manager Ronald Koeman could be a good mentor for Bailey. A move to the Premier League would be a good next step for the attacker, but Everton need to weight up whether is worth the £20million risk.
In other Everton transfer news, the club have submitted an £8million bid for an international midfielder.
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