Everton are looking to strengthen their squad this summer after narrowly avoiding the relegation last season. The Toffees have reportedly established talks with Sporting CP’s Matheus Nunes for a transfer, according to O Jogo. Everton wants to reinforce their midfield and therefore have set their sights on Nunes. Further on, Everton have decided to back their manager Frank Lampard in the market by providing him with the necessary funds.
Nunes has appeared on the radar of Everton after an impressive campaign with Sporting last season. However, the Portuguese side is not anticipating Nunes’ exit and wants to keep him for next season. But the Toffees are ready to trigger the midfielder’s release clause, which could prompt Sporting to negotiate a deal.
Nunes played a massive 50 games for Sporting last season, scoring 4 goals and assisting 5. While his market value stands at £31 million (transfermarkt), Sporting have reportedly inserted a release clause of £51 million in his contract. Furthermore, Sporting have rewarded him with a long-term contract that runs till the summer of 2026.
Operation Nunes won’t be easy for Everton
Frank Lampard has conveyed to the club that he wants a new central midfielder. As Fabian Delph will be leaving after his contract expires this month, Everton wants Nunes to replace the veteran. As a result, to convince Sporting, Everton have tabled an official bid of around £34 million for the 23-year-old. Further on, the package involves add-ons that could rise up to an amount identical to Nunes’ release clause of £51million.
However, Everton have tough competition in their quest to land Nunes. O Jogo further claims that Barcelona, Manchester United, and Wolves are monitoring the midfielder as well. This could dent Everton’s chances if Nunes finds Barca or United’s offer more exciting. The Portugal international has big ambitions and wants to continue to fight for titles and play in European competitions.
As a result, Barca who would offer him the Champions League and United the Europa League could be favored by Nunes. Nonetheless, Everton are still carving out a strategy to sign Nunes from Sporting. On the other hand, Sporting are reportedly searching for Nunes’ replacement in the market.
As things stand, though Everton are ready to shell out the money they would find it difficult to convince Nunes. A player approaching his prime would want to fight for titles, more so when clubs like Barca and United are interested. However, if the Toffees do land him they would join the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal to import talent from Portugal this summer.
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