Everton recently held talks with free agent defender Jerome Boateng, before he was expected to return to Bayern Munich.
However, his move to the German champions has now fallen through despite training with the side for the last few days.
The 35-year-old has not played a lot in recent years, and was last seen at French side Lyon.
It was reported yesterday that Everton held talks with him before giving up on a move as he neared a move to Bayern Munich.
Boateng move collapses
German journalist Florian Plettenburg has now revealed that the move which would see Boateng return to the club where he won two Champions Leagues is now off.
“This afternoon Thomas Tuchel has informed Jerome Boateng about the decision of the club,” Plettenburg tweeted.
“Nothing has changed: FC Bayern won’t sign Boateng as reported earlier! The 35 y/o won’t return to Bayern. He’s disappointed but he wants to continue his career.”
Could Everton now move for him?
Given that his move has now fallen through, and he clearly wants to play at a high level, he could be tempted by a move to Goodison Park.
Boateng had a short spell at Manchester City prior to his move to Bayern in 2011, and perhaps the idea of playing in England again could be tempting for him.
Whilst Everton were interested before, it is unclear whether that interest remains. Perhaps Sean Dyche wants to add an experienced winner to his backline, but it is a move which does not scream success.
His age, susceptibility to injury and lack of match fitness means he is unlikely to be able to slot straight into the team.
With Jarrad Branthwaite signing a new deal, now is the time for Everton to build for the future, and signing someone well past his best would go against any idea of long-term planning the club may have.
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