Fresh competition emerges for key Everton target; Dyche working on second deal for Man Utd star | OneFootball

Villarreal attacker Arnaut Danjuma in action for Tottenham Hotspur, 2023

Everton are once again pushing to sign Arnaut Danjuma from Villarreal but face competition from two big European clubs this summer.

The Netherlands international was close to joining the Toffees on loan in January before he snubbed them at the last minute in favour of a move to Tottenham.

Danjuma found minutes hard to come by at Spurs and it is believed he is looking for a new loan opportunity elsewhere. Now, Everton has once again emerged as a potential destination for him.

It’s no secret that Sean Dyche is looking to add attackers to his squad as he looks to avoid a third-consecutive relegation battle at Goodison Park.

Last season, Everton scored just 34 Premier League goals so it’s only logical that the manager is looking to bring in new options.

For instance, as reported by Football365, the Toffees have made an opening offer for Manchester United winger Anthony Elanga.

Leeds United’s Willy Gnonto is another player that they have been heavily linked with. But, it seems that Everton are focusing on a move for Danjuma, as well as Elanga.

However, they do face competition for the Dutchman’s signature. That is according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano.

On Twitter, he wrote: “AC Milan have entered the race for Danjuma. He’s on the list while Feyenoord and Everton are also in discussion with the player.

“Understand Danjuma has met with Sean Dyche and Arne Slot whilst Milan speaks with his agents. Big days for Danjuma, a decision is expected soon.”

A versatile player, Danjuma can play as a winger on either flank and as a centre-forward, where Everton are most in need of reinforcements.

Indeed, Everton’s two striker options Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Neal Maupay cannot be relied upon.

Calvert-Lewin endured another injury-disrupted season last term, while Maupay scored just one goal in 27 Premier League appearances.

Therefore, if Everton do sign Danjuma, Dyche may be forced to play him as a striker the majority of the time.

As stated by Romano, AC Milan and Feyenoord are both still in the race, but given Everton’s long-standing interest in the 26-year-old they are thought to be favourites as it stands. A loan deal with an option to buy is the most likely scenario for the Toffees.

With that in mind, it will be interesting to see if Everton can finalise deals for both Danjuma and Elanga this summer. They are in dire need of attacking additions, so Toffees fans will hope that both players sign as soon as possible.