Everton hold talks with Newcastle striker target who scored 22 goals last season

Everton’s search for another striker has become more difficult at the worst possible time.

David Moyes still has Beto and Thierno Barry available, but the Toffees have been looking for extra firepower before the transfer window closes.

Liam Delap had emerged as one of the more attractive options due to his age, physical style and previous Premier League experience.

However, Everton now appear to have lost that race.

Nottingham Forest have agreed a club-record package with Chelsea for the 23-year-old. Forest will reportedly pay an initial £45 million, with another £5 million potentially following through bonuses.

Delap is due to undergo a medical, leaving Everton to look elsewhere despite being called favourites for a good portion of the window.

It is a frustrating development, but the size of Forest’s offer also explains why the Toffees may have decided not to become involved in an expensive battle.

REUTERS/Scott Heppell

Spending close to £50 million on a striker who struggled for regular goals at Chelsea would have carried significant risk. Everton need somebody capable of contributing immediately, particularly if Beto leaves, but they must also avoid paying an inflated price simply because deadline day is approaching.

Zian Flemming has reportedly been watched, while a possible return for Richarlison has also been discussed in the media.

Action Images via Reuters/Matthew Childs

Both would provide different solutions. Flemming knows English football and offers strength around the penalty area, whereas Richarlison would arrive with a deep connection to the club and an understanding of Moyes’ demands.

Neither possibility looks simple, though, and that has pushed a familiar name back towards the centre of Everton’s plans.

Everton hold fresh talks with FC Midtjylland striker Franculino

According to TEAMtalk, Everton have reopened talks with the representatives of FC Midtjylland striker Franculino.

The Guinea-Bissau international has been followed closely by the Toffees and was also linked with a move to Merseyside before an injury interrupted his season.

Midtjylland confirmed in December that he had undergone a minor procedure, but the forward has since returned to fitness.

Franculino is only 22, stands at 6 ft 1in and is naturally left-footed, and TEAMtalk suggests a fee of around £21.4 million, could be enough to make a deal possible.

Newcastle are also credited with an interest in the centre-forward who scored 22 goals last season, so Everton may need to act quickly if talks progress.

Franculino would represent a very different gamble to Delap.

He has not yet experienced Premier League football, but his speed, strength and willingness to attack space could suit Moyes’ direct approach. He can occupy centre backs, threaten behind a defence and still has plenty of room to improve.

The situation could also depend on Beto.

Everton are reportedly expecting interest in the Portuguese striker, but do not intend to approve a departure without first finding a replacement.

Delap may be heading to the City Ground, but Everton’s striker search is far from over.