Everton are closing in on the appointment of Nuno Santo as their new manager and with that in mind, they can finally begin thinking about recruitment.
The Toffees’ plans were thrown into disarray after Carlo Ancelotti left the club so a new list of targets may well have to be drafted in order to suit the incoming manager.
What’s the word?
According to The Mirror, Everton are locked in a battle to sign Real Madrid’s Marcelo.
The Brazilian’s contract expires in the summer of 2022 so could be available at a cut-price over the next few months.
The defender’s asking price is around the £5m mark with Leeds thought to be interested in the Madrid legend as well.
That being said, it’s the Toffees who are believed to be in pole position to sign Marcelo.
A massive coup
The left-back is now 33 years of age but there is no denying the incredible accomplishments of his career and indeed his talent.
Marcelo is a genuine legend at Real Madrid and has racked up over 500 appearances for the Spanish giants.
In the process, he’s won an impressive haul of trophies; including five La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues. Clearly, luring him to Goodison Park would be a massive coup.
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A flair player, the 58-cap Brazil international is not only a ruthless tackler but he’s also a rampant force when he goes forward.
He won 1.6 tackles per game in La Liga this term while he produced 2.5 challenges per match. Capable of beating players for fun, at his peak Marcelo completed 2.6 successful dribbles an outing.
Given his age, the defender would be a fantastic mentor for Lucas Digne and would be able to step in reliably for the Frenchman should he require resting or be injured.
He would also arrive in Merseyside with a high dose of praise from a certain Carlo Ancelotti.
The Italian commented in 2014: “Since the World Cup, Marcelo has been the best full-back in the world without a doubt.”
A canny operator, this would be a sign of the ambition Everton have. They want to get back in the Champions League and by adding characters like him to their squad, they will have a greater chance.