According to Buzzsport, Everton and Manchester City are watching Rafael Leao very closely and could make a move for the highly-rated Lille forward this summer. Leao is coming off the back of a prolific campaign that has seen him score and create 10 goals in 15 Ligue 1 starts for a side currently sitting second in the division.
The 19-year-old joined on a free transfer from Sporting CP last summer and has set the French top-flight alight in his debut season. Leao is expected to have plenty of interest in his signature as a result of his form, but he won’t come cheap – Lille are reportedly asking for £34m. FIFA say the teenager currently earns £0.66m-a-year/£12.8k-per-week at the Stade Pierre Mauroy.
Despite having Manchester City competing for his signature, Everton have a good opportunity to be the ones to bring Leao to England. The Toffees are in the market for a centre-forward to lead the line next season, whereas City have Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus in the way, so the Lille striker might opt for regular playing time.
Everton were willing to pay around £50m for Richarlison, so £34m for Leao is definitely possible this summer.