Everton are looking to bring in attacking reinforcements this January transfer window, with Thierno Barry and Beto not scoring enough between them.
David Moyes has made a striker a top priority and has actually drawn up a long list of potential targets to explore.
Artem Dovbyk is on Moyes’ radar, although the AS Roma centre-forward prefers to move to another Italian club.
Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson has also been linked to Everton, but there is competition from other Premier League clubs for his signature.
Now, a fresh Everton rumour is emerging, and this time it’s to a number nine in Holland.
Everton eyeing Ricardo Pepi
According to TEAMtalk, Everton are one of the clubs showing an interest in PSV striker Ricardo Pepi this winter.
Moyes’ side are facing competition from Fulham, Sunderland, Leeds United and West Ham, so it won’t be an easy deal to complete.
Everton are interested in PSV striker Ricardo Pepi, would he replace Thierno Barry straight away? 👀
Fulham have already launched a £26m bid for the 22-year-old, but the Dutch outfit have swiftly rejected it, giving the Toffees a chance to swoop in.
Pepi, who has netted 10 goals in 21 appearances this season, is keen on a mid-season move to England, so Everton stand a good chance of landing his signature if they meet PSV’s price tag.
The question is, do Everton need to spend another £30m-odd on another centre-forward when Barry seems to be finding his feet?
Everton should go for a short-term striker
Instead of paying the big bucks for another striker, Everton should just try to bring in an experienced number nine on a short-term deal.
That way, Barry can learn from them for the remainder of the season and then be ready to step up next term.
Danny Welbeck would be perfect for Everton, but it remains to be seen whether Brighton would sanction his departure.
Welbeck has seven Premier League goals to his name this term, which is more than double the return Barry and Beto have combined.
The Toffees could also really benefit from including Beto in a potential swap deal for other targets overseas.
The former Udinese frontman has consistent interest from Italy.
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