Everton have been on the hunt for a new centre-back this summer and were previously closing in on Gabriel Magalhaes, but their pursuit for the 22-year-old has been dealt a blow as Foot Mercato reveal that Napoli have ‘agreed’ a deal worth €22m with LOSC Lille.
Napoli have matched Lille’s asking price and have agreed personal terms with Gabriel worth €2m-a-year until 2025, but the deal is far from finalised. Foot Mercato say that although Gabriel is ‘thrilled’ at the prospect of playing for Napoli, Lille are still ‘studying options’ from other clubs and aren’t in a rush to sell.
Tottenham Hotspur are interested in the central defender too, so there may be three clubs battling for his signature. Foot Mercato say Everton are still in the race for Gabriel and could have success bringing him to Goodison Park if they’re willing to outbid Napoli, but it’s unknown how much they’re willing to pay.
Carlo Ancelotti wants a player to accompany Mason Holgate, Yerry Mina and Michael Keane next season and has been linked with Thiago Silva, Jean-Clair Todibo, Kalidou Koulibaly, Thiago Silva, Gabriel Magalhaes, Marash Kumbulla, Christian Luyindama, Issa Diop and Tosin Adarabioyo, so it’s also unknown which player they’ll end up signing.