Everton face competition from Leicester City over a deal to sign Richard Rios this summer, according to Nicola Parcerias.
The South American journalist reported via his YouTube channel on 18 July that both clubs have already approached the Palmeiras midfielder who is set to return to his club on Saturday after a break following a stand-out Copa America with Colombia.
The Toffees and the Foxes are both said to be willing to do a permanent deal for the 24-year-old but neither have made an official offer yet.
Rios has an “astronomical” release clause worth around €100million [£84.2m] but Palmeiras would reportedly be open to negotiate for around €20m [£16.8m].
Everton seek Amadou Onana replacement amid Aston Villa exit
Sean Dyche is said to be prioritising a move to find a replacement for Amadou Onana as the Belgian international closes in on a £50m move to Aston Villa [Give Me Sport, 16 July].
In terms of age profile and experience it looks like Rios could be a solid contender and for a fraction of the exit-bound Toffees star’s price.
The Colombian started every game as his country made it all the way to the final of the Copa America against Argentina, scoring in the quarter-final victory over Panama.
Whether a deal can be done remains to be seen but it appears some contact has been made, whether that be via intermediaries or directly.
There are bound to be a lot of moving parts when it comes to Kevin Thelwell’s work this summer as he will have to be prepared to miss out on targets and have alternatives ready to go.
Ex-Liverpool loanee Arthur Melo appears to be very much available from Juventus if the technical director and manager think the Brazilian can plug the gap left by Onana.
Chelsea’s talented youngster Lesley Ugochukwu is also a reported target for that spot [Foot Mercato, 13 July] but would only be available on loan.
That would necessarily become impossible if another temporary signing is made as it would fill the second slot after Jack Harrison’s return from Leeds, and with a loan-to-buy move said to be close for Napoli attacker Jesper Lindstrom [Sebastien Vidal, 19 July] it may make another permanent signing in the midfield necessary after Tim Ireogbunam.
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