Everton want to sign Two Sensational Stars as £4.2m price tag emerges
Everton are among the clubs who want to sign Croatian sensation Anton Matkovic after scouting him this season, according to Sport Italia.
Writing on their website (30 April), the news outlet reported that the 18-year-old starlet has impressed several clubs including Milan, Atalanta, Inter, and Fulham after breaking into the Osijek first-team this season.
The 6ft 3 teenager has become an “unmovable starter” for his current side since the turn of the year and the Sport Italia report says he has drawn comparisons to Bayern Munich legend and Champions League winner Mario Mandzukic for his style of play, which has led Osijek to put a price tag of around £4.2m on his head to ward off any potential suitors.
Everton planning for the future with Matkovic transfer?
This upcoming summer transfer window is just as much about planning for the long-term future as it is about strengthening the current squad at Goodison Park.
Several players are entering the latter years of their career now, while decisions over the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin need to be made with his contract situation and injury record.
Matkovic is highly unlikely to be able to come into the Premier League from Croatia and make an immediate impact, but considering the money at the top level the £4.2m asking price could prove to be shrewd business down the line.
The Toffees spent big to bring in both Beto and Youssef Chermiti last summer but neither have really made a big impact on the pitch, and the latter has been tipped for a loan away.
That could open the door for Matkovic to come in and fill that role in the squad. Either way, Everton know the talent that Matkovic has and by moving quickly could secure themselves a top player for a minimal fee.
The Blues are not the only club said to be showing a keen interest in the 22-year-old forward after he continued to impress for the La Liga club’s ‘B’ team. Drammeh has scored ten goals and provided three assists in 31 appearances as Sevilla Atletico have claimed promotion into Spanish football’s third tier this season.
There were widespread reports suggesting Sunderland were unsuccessful with two offers for the forward during the January transfer window and Football Insider have claimed the Black Cats remain keen admirers as they put together their plans for the summer trading. Barcelona-born Drammeh also has interest from Cardiff City as it looks increasingly likely he will move to England in the not-too-distant future.
