Thierno Barry and Beto haven’t made the grade for Everton this season, so David Moyes is in the market for another centre-forward this month.
Moyes is interested in signing Ivan Toney from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, although the conditions of that deal may be difficult.
AS Roma’s Artem Dovbyk has also been linked to the Hill Dickinson Stadium, but it’s understood his preference is to remain in Italy.
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Evan Ferguson, Nicolas Jackson and Jorgen Strand Larsen are among other names mooted to join the Toffees.
And, one of Everton’s other targets is now making the headlines as his club director has released a statement on his situation amid links to Merseyside.
PSV director releases statement about Everton target Ricardo Pepi
It was reported earlier this month that Everton were keen on signing Ricardo Pepi after his impressive season with PSV.
Pepi has netted 10 goals in 21 outings and it’s understood that Premier League rivals Fulham are also in the race to land his signature.
In fact, Fulham have already had a bid rejected for the 34-cap USA international, which has now forced PSV director Earnie Stewart to release a statement about his striker.
“We received an offer and we rejected it,” Stewart told VI. “We have no intention of selling Ricardo.”
Asked if PSV would consider a higher bid, Stewart replied: “There’s no point in thinking about that at the moment, because there is no such offer.”
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“The market has changed. After the winter break, you still have two games (Bayern Munich and Newcastle) in the Champions League, which makes it more complicated.
“If you sell a player, you can’t replace him in the Champions League. You can only register a new player in February if you’re still in the tournament and the market is already closed. That’s not ideal.”
Everton would have to commit significant funds to sign Ricardo Pepi
PSV are reportedly demanding £35m to sanction Pepi’s sale this winter, so it would take up a large portion of Moyes’ budget.
Given Moyes also wants to sign a midfielder and a full-back, he must weigh up whether it’s worth shelling out that kind of money on one position.
Pepi is still unproven at the top level, so the potential signing would certainly bring a large element of risk.
Alan Myers believes Ivan Toney is the best option out there, and he may be available at a lower price, quite remarkably.
A telling month lies ahead for the Merseysiders.
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