Everton seem to be closing in on a massive signing this summer, as Sportsboom reports that negotiations have come a long way and that they have a common goal of landing a deal very soon.
The Toffees are looking to build on the existing talent pool David Moyes has at their disposal, after they comfortably avoided relegation talk in the Premier League after several seasons marked by problems.
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The pursuit of European Cup football proved to be a step too far for the club this time around, but there is hope that this summer’s investment can add the extra quality needed to cross the finish line next season.
There have been plenty of links to several potential signings, and now reports claim that John Stones could make a sensational return to Everton in the next few weeks.
Everton close in on Stones return
Everton are looking to bolster their options this summer, and according to Sportsboom, the club are in “advanced negotiations” over a return for Stones in the summer transfer window.
The defender has settled in after leaving Manchester City, where he has impressed greatly at the Etihad Stadium since his transfer from the Toffees back in 2016.
In the ten years since, the Stones have won 19 trophies, including six Premier League titles. He has also been a key player for the England national team, and despite injury problems recently, he looks set to play an important role for the Three Lions at the World Cup this summer.
While his future is still undecided before the championship, the reports of a potential move to Hill Dickinson Stadium could mean an early deal for Moyes and his crew.
It is claimed that Everton are “increasingly optimistic” about securing Stones, while there also seems to be ongoing interest from Serie A for the centre-back.
It remains to be seen whether the deal can be completed, but there is certainly a risk associated with getting it done.
The risk behind the signing
There are many pros and cons to trying to sign a player like Stones in the summer transfer window.
The defender has been described as “world-class” during his time at Manchester City, and while his physique may have waned with age, his leadership skills and football intelligence should at least help give him some longevity.
The biggest concerns, however, relate to his availability. Stones has struggled to get on the pitch as often as he would like, and injury issues have affected his ability to play for Manchester City.
Can Everton afford to gamble?
While City can cover for such a player in their ranks, the possibility for Everton to do the same with similar quality is obviously much more difficult.
Add in any salary requests, and all in all, it could be a deal that is costly and questionable in terms of the club’s long-term success.
It remains to be seen whether the transfer will happen, and if so, whether it will be a success. But there is undoubtedly a risk associated with getting it done.
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