Everton have now shocked Spanish side Almeria with their bid for 21-year-old forward El Bilal Toure, as Sean Dyche look’s to strengthen the Blues forward line.
The Mali international is valued at £34m by the La Liga club, though Everton have surprised Almeria by offering an unusually structured deal.
The Daily Mail report that Everton have proposed an initial loan fee upfront for the forward, followed by an obligation to buy next summer in a series of instalments, as opposed to an outright bid.
Everton will likely face competition for Toure’s signature, with Serie A side Atalanta considering the Malian as a potential replacement for Manchester United-linked Rasmus Hojlund.
Everton securing El Bilal Toure would be a boost for Sean Dyche next season
Toure had an impressive campaign in Spain last season, scoring seven times in 22 appearences, notching up a goal-per-game ratio just shy of one every three outings.
Indeed, the young forward is also known for his rapid pace, and is capable is reaching a speed of 35km/h, which is apparently as fast as a spinytail iguana.
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The addition of both goals and pace to Everton’s forward line is a must this summer and El Bilal Toure could be an excellent signing for Sean Dyche.
The prodigious talent may also have resale value in the future, unlike many of Everton’s recent purchases, such as £15m Neal Maupay, who Sean Dyche has deemed not good enough for the club.
The Frenchman could leave on a season-long loan this summer, with Sheffield United reportedly interested, but the Blues are unlikely to ever recoup much from their investment in the striker.
Whether Everton and Almeria can agree on a structured deal for El Bilal Toure remains to be seen, but the young forward could be a smart addition for Sean Dyche.