Everton‘s search for a new striker has been one of the most closely watched parts of their summer transfer plans.
The Toffees have already been linked with several attacking options as they look to strengthen a squad that is preparing for another full campaign under club legend David Moyes.
Feyenoord forward Ayase Ueda has been mentioned as a target for the Toffees in recent days, with the Eredivise’s top scorer from last season also set to draw eyes at the World Cup.
Reports have suggested Everton are among the clubs pushing to land the Japan international after an impressive campaign in the Netherlands, where he scored 25 league goals in just 31 outings.
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Ueda’s goalscoring record and experience at international level have made him an attractive target.
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s out-of-favour number nine Liam Delap has also been regularly mentioned in Everton transfer talk, as he was last summer before his high-profile Ipswich exit landed him at Stamford Bridge.
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Juve have automatically triggered his option but do not want to keep the player.
Everton have also been credited with interest in younger forwards capable of developing into long-term solutions in the final third.
The club’s recruitment team are believed to be weighing up a mixture of proven quality and emerging talent as they reshape the attacking department.
Another striker in that mould has entered the conversation.
Karl Etta Eyong keen to explore Everton move despite Ipswich pushing
According to TEAMtalk, Everton have made contact over a possible move for Levante starlet Karl Etta Eyong.
The 21-year-old has become one of the most talked-about young forwards in Spain after an outstanding season at Levante, where he racked up 11 goal contributions in 33 La Liga outings.
His performances have not gone unnoticed.
A number of clubs from across England are now monitoring his situation closely as the summer transfer window gathers pace, and Everton are among those who have registered an interest.
The report states that an approach has been made as the Merseyside club explore the conditions of a potential deal, and Eyong would be keen to explore a move to Everton himself if the opportunity arises.
However, Everton currently face significant competition.
Ipswich Town are reported to be leading the race for the Cameroon-born striker. The newly-promoted Premier League side have already opened talks and are pushing aggressively to secure an agreement.
That early move has helped place them in a strong position.
Ipswich are understood to view Eyong as a major target and have stepped up their efforts in recent days. As things stand, they are regarded as the frontrunners.
That does not mean Everton are out of the running.
Should negotiations between Ipswich and Levante encounter difficulties, Everton could still become serious contenders, and it is believed that Tottenham are considering the ex-Villarreal sensation as well.
However, Spurs would want him as more of a midfield option and an alternative to the likes of high-profile targets Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.
Eyong can play in the middle of the park, but Moyes’ side want him for the centre-forward role.
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