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Why Everton must beat Arsenal to the signature of reported PL target
By Dominic Toner
Everton must ensure they win the race ahead of Arsenal to sign Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel in the summer.
The Daily Mail claim that the Toffees have drawn up a shortlist of goalkeepers they are considering ahead of the summer window, with Schmeichel targeted alongside England internationals Fraser Forster and Joe Hart.
It is understood that Ronald Koeman wants a new number one to replace Maarten Stekelnburg and Joel Robles.
However, the Sun report that Arsenal are plotting a summer move for Schmeichel to rival Petr Cech in goal.
Everton need to be bold and pull out all the stocks to make sure the Danish shot stopper is at Goodison Park next season.
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The Merseyside club nearly need a new number one if they are to break into the top six of the Premier League, despite Robles and Stekelenburg both proving their qualities at different times this season.
The majority of the top sides in the league have a fantastic goalkeepers between the sticks and that is exactly what Schmeichel has become in the past couple of seasons.
He played a major role in the Foxes’ unlikely Premier League title triumph last season and has continued to perform strongly this campaign.
Schmeichel is a great shot stopper, comfortable in possession and a very vocal presence in the backline.
The 30-year-old wears his heart on his sleeve and would become an instant favourite with the Everton fans, who could also expect some match winning performances in return.
He has proven himself on the European stage this campaign in the Champions League and would certainly be an improvement on their current options.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are desperate for some new options in goal and believe Schmeichel is good enough to play at the Emirates Stadium.
In other Everton transfer news, they have identified a 21-year-old ripping it up in the MLS.
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