Everton have reportedly made contact to sign Como forward Assane Diao, as per transfer journalist Matteo Moretto.
The 20-year-old started his youth career at Badajoz before spending a very brief spell with Flecha Negra and Balón de Cádiz. He joined Real Betis’ academy back in 2021 before making his first team debut a couple of years later.
The youngster featured as a rotational option at Benito Villamarín Stadium. Still, Como decided to secure his services last year after being impressed by his performances.
Diao enjoyed a promising debut campaign at Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, making nine goal contributions across all competitions. He even helped his side qualify for this season’s Champions League but struggled with fitness problems last campaign.
Now, on X, Moretto states that Everton are interested in reinforcing the flanks late in this window and have made contact to enquire about Diao’s availability.
With the player’s existing deal set to run until 2029, Como aren’t in any rush to sell him this summer, and the player is valued at around £26m by Transfermarkt.
Diao, standing at 6ft 1in tall, is a right-footed versatile forward as he is comfortable on either flank. He is quick, strong, can dribble past opposition defenders in tight areas, is efficient in finishing off his chances, and works hard without possession.
Diao to Everton
Following Brennan Johnson’s arrival, the Toffees currently have the former Tottenham Hotspur star plus Iliman Ndiaye, Tyler Dibling, and Tyrique George as wide forward options.
However, Dibling endured a disappointing campaign last term after joining from Southampton. On the other hand, George is still very young and needs time to develop, while Ndiaye has been linked with a move away.
Johnson, meanwhile, has displayed below-average performances in recent years. So, David Moyes’ side could do with signing a new forward this summer.
Diao is a talented player and possesses the necessary physical attributes to flourish in the Premier League. So, the Senegalese international might be a shrewd acquisition for Everton should they purchase him.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Merseyside club eventually make a concrete approach to secure his services before the September 1st transfer deadline.
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