According to O Jogo via Sport Witness, Everton are chasing Morata and could make a move for the 18-year-old as scouting reports have come back positive. The centre-back plays for Benfica and is currently developing in their reserve team.
Morata has made seven UEFA Youth League appearances for the U19s this season and 14 Liga Pro appearances for the B Team. He’s also turned out twice for the u23s in the Liga Revelacao and made his first-team debut in Benfica’s Allianz Cup draw with Vitoria Setubal in December 2019.
Everton’s scouts reportedly watched him for the u19s against Liverpool on Tuesday and were pleased with his performance in the 4-1 win. Marco Silva showed an interest before his departure and the Toffees still remain interested. Morato has a €60m release clause, however, so he won’t come cheap.
Would Morato be a good signing for Everton?
Yes
No
O Jogo add that Everton’s scouts were impressed with Morato’s build-up play, pace and physicality in tackles. Whether they make a move for the Brazilian remains to be seen, however, as the Blues need a defender who can join the three existing centre-backs in the first-team.
Morato only has one senior appearance to his name, so he may be one for the future. Should the 18-year-old pick up more minutes under Bruno Lage before the season comes to a close, however, Everton may be convinced he can make an instant impact.
Time will tell.