Everton’s interest in reported transfer target Samuel Umtiti appears to be intensifying after Spanish media claimed that an enquiry has been lodged with Barcelona.
The French World Cup winner has been blighted by injury in recent years with the La Liga titans, causing him to fall down the pecking order at Barcelona.
However, reports by Sport indicate that his recent re-emergence in Ronald Koeman’s plans is more the ‘starting gun’ to put him in the eye of potential suitors as the club seek to offload the defender from the wage bill.
Umtiti himself is said to be receptive to a move away from the club so long as his destination is a good ‘sports project’.
When Everton have Carlo Ancelotti at the helm and can attract the likes of James Rodriguez and Allan to the club, Everton may well be that attractive ‘sports project’ which Umtiti desires.
The standout part of the article was the revelation that Everton ‘has asked about’ the 27-year-old in a formal enquiry. This is indicative that Everton’s interest is anything but casual; Umtiti remains a serious prospect as Ancelotti looks to ramp up the quality in all areas of his squad.
Read Everton Verdict
With a proven track record of success in major competitions and at just 27 years old, Umtiti could represent superb value for money.
The escalation of Everton’s interest can only be a good thing ahead of the January window, although it could also cause defenders such as the under-fire Yerry Mina to sweat over their long-term future at the club.
The Colombian, who has been in and out of the team in recent weeks, could be watching with bated breath to see if his former Barcelona team-mate will follow him in swapping Catalunya for Merseyside.
