Everton are reportedly weighing up a swoop to sign Celta Vigo defender Javi Rodriguez, as per TEAMtalk.
The 23-year-old started his youth career at Marcón Atlético before joining the Sky Blues’ academy at the age of seven. After coming through their youth system, the youngster made his first-team debut in 2023 before establishing himself as a regular starter.
Last season, he showed glimpses of his qualities, registering two assists and keeping 10 clean sheets in 46 appearances across all competitions. Moreover, he helped his side qualify for the Europa League by finishing sixth in La Liga.
Rodriguez has taken his game to another level this campaign, scoring three goals and notching up a solitary assist in 10 matches in all tournaments. Moreover, he has helped his side keep two clean sheets.
Now, TEAMtalk state that after being impressed by Rodriguez’s recent promising performances, Everton initially expressed their interest in him last summer and enquired about the details of signing him.
However, they never made a concrete approach before the deadline. Still, they remain keen on him, and alongside the Toffees, Fulham, Newcastle United and AFC Bournemouth have been showing interest in the Spaniard since last summer.
Apart from the Premier League clubs, Paris Saint-Germain are also in this race, while AC Milan and Como explored the possibility of signing him in the last transfer window.
Rodriguez to Everton
The report state that Rodriguez recently signed a new contract with Celta Vigo until 2030 and has a £33.4m release clause. So, the Spanish side want a fee close to that sum to let him leave in January.
Rodriguez is a 6ft tall right-footed versatile defender as he can be deployed in the centre-back and right-back roles. The youngster has mainly been featuring as a RCB under Claudio Giraldez in his back three system.
Rodriguez is quick, technically sound, comfortable playing out from the back, and is efficient in defensive contributions. He is a talented player and possesses high potential.
Therefore, the Celta Vigo star might be a shrewd acquisition for Everton should they eventually manage to secure his services by defeating other clubs in this race.
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