Photo by Omar Vega/Getty Images

Transfers

HomeTransfersEvertonEnglish Premier League

Everton now make contact to sign £16.8m man who was one of the best players at Copa America this summer

Billy Meyers

Thu 18 July 2024 18:45, UK Updated Tue 23 July 2024 13:10, UK

Everton are now keen to sign one of James Rodriguez’s Colombia teammates after he enjoyed a superb Copa America campaign.

The summer’s edition of the prestigious tournament saw Argentina triumph over Colombia in the final, as a goal from Lautaro Martinez secured a 1-0 win.

However, a player on the losing side was so impressive, that Everton have now made contact to sign him…

Everton enquire about Richard Rios

A story from now claims that Everton have made contact with Palmeiras to sign Richard Rios.

The central midfielder played every game for Colombia at the Copa America this summer, helping his country reach the final with some spirited displays, while also scoring against Panama in the quarter-final.

UOL state that Leicester City have also enquired about Rios along with Everton, with the South American news outlet adding that the Toffees are keen to sign Arthur Melo as well.

Palmeiras are said to be keen to keep their No.27 in Brazil this summer, but UOL believe the Brazilian giants would consider an offer in the region of €20m (£16.8m).

Kevin Thelwell seems to be lining up several defenders

If you’ve kept a close eye on recent stories involving Everton, there is a common trend.

Kevin Thelwell – Director of Football at Goodison Park – seems to be lining up several central defenders for Dyche to potentially choose from.

A story from claimed that Everton have approached Montpellier to sign Becir Omeragic.

Then, Turkish news outlet stated that Everton have also made contact to sign another central defender in Yasin Arda Midilic.

Whether that means Dyche simply wants to bolster his defence, or is preparing to replace Jarrad Branthwaite amid interest from Manchester United, remains to be seen, although it is an interesting trend nonetheless.

READ MORE: Everton close to signing £21m player who said he rejected Liverpool move

Be sure to keep an eye on developments at Goodison Park, to see if Everton are successful in their apparent pursuit of a central defender.