‘Very impressive’ 23-year-old likes Everton transfer idea as key issue arises

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Brazilian winger Luiz Henrique appreciates the prospect of a transfer to Everton this January but he is unlikely to switch to Goodison Park due to Real Betis’ asking price.

The 23-year-old has emerged as a player whom Everton admire this season. But coach Sean Dyche is unlikely to strengthen his side unless the Merseyside natives raise significant sums. Everton are working with their back firmly to the wall after breaching FFP for a second time.

News emerged on Monday that the Premier League had charged Everton with exceeding its profit and sustainability rules (PSR) again. The Blues are still appealing a 10-point penalty for losses of £124.5m from 2019/20 to 21/22 but exceeded the £105m limit for 20/21 to 22/23.

Everton cannot afford Luiz Henrique’s transfer from Real Betis

Now, Everton’s PSR predicament – with a third charge for 21/22 to 23/24 touted already – is set to see them miss out on Henrique’s transfer from Real Betis. That is according to Estadio Deportivo, which claims that the Blues simply cannot afford the €18m (£15.5m) fee needed.

Everton can only sign Henrique in January if Real Betis agree to loan the forward and offer a purchase option. But Manuel Pellegrini’s Benito Villamarin side are not prepared to sanction anything but a straight transfer. Henrique also has a clutch of alternative suitors this month.

AFC Bournemouth are also interested in signing Henrique, who Spanish football expert Tim Lee has called ‘very impressive’. Unnamed teams in Portugal and Italy are also watching his situation in Seville, having only been a bit-part player so far this term in his La Liga matches.

Everton scouted Luiz Henrique in La Liga against Granada

Everton, though, would have had a good chance at signing Henrique if Real Betis were open to a loan transfer. The former Brazil U20 winger and his agents admired the idea of a switch to Goodison Park. He has only started four of the 23-year-old’s 12 La Liga games this term.

Henrique has laid on two assists in the Spanish top-flight and boasts one goal in 19 games in all competitions. The forward’s performances have also taken Everton’s interest for weeks. Estadio Deportivo reported recently that the Toffees scouted Henrique against Granada CF.