Everton are facing some problems in terms of convincing targets to join.
The Toffees are keen to sign Youssef En-Nesyri on loan from Fenerbahce, and have already made a bid to take the Morocco international on loan with a £17m purchase option included.
However, Alan Myers believes En-Nesyri is not keen on a move to Everton, with reports in Turkey adding that the Fenerbahce No.19 wants to avoid the miserable English weather.
Despite that, another Everton target in Zakaria El Ouahdi has a different view on a move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium following an interview with Het Belang van Limburg.
Zakaria El Ouahdi is “open” to Premier League move as Everton talk to Genk
It was Africa Foot who claimed that Everton are in advanced talks with Genk over a deal for the Morocco international, who is valued at €12m (£10m) by the Belgian giants.
Everton want to sign Zakaria El Ouahdi… he looks like an upgrade on Jake O’Brien 🤩
El Ouahdi – who Crystal Palace also want – has now spoken about his future, admitting that he would consider a move to England if the opportunity presented itself.
The Genk No.77 said: “For me, the Premier League and La Liga in Spain are the two best leagues in the world. If the opportunity truly arises to play football there, I’m open to it.
“I realise it’s not easy to succeed at the highest level, but that doesn’t deter me, because even if it doesn’t work out, you can always bounce back. Take one or even two steps back and then climb back up. That’s how I am, but again, we’re not there yet. Right now, I’m completely focused on KRC Genk. I’m looking forward to climbing back up the table together.”
El Ouahdi has scored four goals and provided two assists in 20 appearances across all competitions so far this season, and is contracted to Genk until July 2028.
Everton have a vast array of Zakaria El Ouahdi alternatives if Genk star picks Crystal Palace or stays in Belgium
If Everton do end up missing out on the Moroccan this winter, there are many other fish in the sea.
Everton have enquired about Emil Holm of Bologna along with El Ouahdi, the Sweden international who can actually play in either full-back position.
David Moyes wants a new right-back and a new left-back, so the Swede would tick both boxes in that respect.
If you were David Moyes, which three players would you want to sign in January?
Everton also like Brooke Norton-Cuffy from Genoa, so the former Arsenal man represents another option at right-back.
A current Arsenal man is on the shortlist too, as Everton consider Ben White after the England international lost his spot under Mikel Arteta to Jurrien Timber.
Therefore, missing out on El Ouahdi would not be the end of the world for the Toffees by any means.
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox
