Everton are interested in signing Fenerbahce’s Attila Szalai.
That’s according to Turkish outlet Star, who have reported that the Toffees are one of a number of clubs targeting the defender this summer.
Szalai joined the Turkish club in January 2021 and has been a regular in their starting line-up, winning his first bit of silverware in the Turkish Cup last season.
The 25-year-old has 35 international caps to his name and he has previously been dubbed the ‘Next Virgil van Dijk’ by pundits and Hungarian fans.
The report claims that Valencia, Wolfsburg and Zenit are also interested in Szalai, while Anderlecht have already made a bid for his signature.
It claims that Fenerbahce will demand a fee of approximately €20million (£17m) for his services, despite still having two years left on his contract.
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Turkish media outlet Fotomac reported that West Ham were close to a deal for Szalai last summer before the move collapsed in the final stages.
Everton could bolster their defence with the help of Attila Szailai
Everton need to improve their backline this summer following Yerry Mina’s release and Conor Coady‘s return to Wolves.
The Toffees have been left with limited options in defence and Attila Szalai could be a sensible signing to strengthen their side.
At 6 ft 2, the Hungarian’s height would add a trait that Sean Dyche’s side have arguably been missing – especially without Mina’s towering frame.
However, Everton will face plenty of competition for Szalai’s signature and will have to act fast to secure the move.
This could be very difficult if the Merseyside club need to sell before they buy, with Anderlecht already targeting a swift transfer for the centre-back.
If Szalai is as good as pundits and fans seem to think he is, then £17m for the defender could be a good ideal if they can cough up the cash this summer.