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Rafa Benitez closes in on key transfer targets after Everton appointment
Rafael Benitez is closing in on his key transfer targets.
Benitez confirmed as new Everton boss
Rafa Benitez seems to be already asserting himself at Everton by planning to delve deep into the transfer market this summer. The former Liverpool manager’s appointment made shockwaves on Merseyside when he was announced recently.
A beloved figure at Anfield, it is doubtful he’ll be as warmly received down the road at Goodison.
In fact, Benitez is planning to raid his former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard’s Rangers.
The Daily Record reports that the 61-year-old Spaniard is planning to swoop for Finland international midfielder Glen Kamara.
However, it is uncertain if Gerrard will want to relinquish the 25-year-old. Kamara had an impressive season in Scotland this season, winning the title.
He also helped Finland to the finals of an international tournament for the first time this summer.
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Long-time Everton target Wilfried Zaha has again been linked with a move to Merseyside this summer.
The forward will not come cheap, Crystal Palace are reportedly wanting £50million for the forward, a price tag many believe is too steep.
Darren Ambrose told talkSPORT: "For £50 million, I think they would sell him now. I really do. We have seen it with Ben White, he is overpriced at the moment. Is Ben White worth £50 or £60 million then I don’t think he is?”
Benitez is reportedly plotting to bid for Bologna defender Takehiro Tomiyasu. The Japanese 22-year-old can operate at right-back and centre-back.
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However, the Toffees boss faces competition from Tottenham and West Ham for his signature.
Everton-linked Denzel Dumfries, 25, has been given permission by his current club PSV Eindhoven to talk to interested parties, according to a report.
Another centre-back on Benitez’s wish list, it seems clear the roles he wants to strengthen.
Benitez is certainly making himself busy this window, but he may find himself busier yet trying to keep his players first.
Former Everton manager Carlo Ancelloti, who left for Real Madrid after just one season, might infuriate the Toffees even more by prying away their star man Richarlison.
According to ESPN, Ancelloti is reportedly very keen to take the Brazilian 24-year-old with him to Spain and has ‘asked Madrid to sign him’.
Goal claim Ancelloti has been in personal contact with Richarlison and is very keen to see him at the Santiago Bernabeu next season.
The article states that the talks could evolve into an official offer in the coming weeks because of the recent phone call.