22 Year Old Winger Snubs Everton For A Transfer: What Should The Toffees Do? | OneFootball

Francisco Conceição has been attracting attention for months for his pace, quality, and advantage in one-on-one situations on the wings. At just 22 years of age, the Portuguese winger has completed important stages between Porto and Juventus. Born in Coimbra, he forged his character in the youth academy of the Dragons and earned minutes in the elite. His loan spell in Turin did not go unnoticed, with seven goals and six assists in almost 50 games, speaking well of his progression. Francisco’s return to Porto seemed to open new doors, but now his future is in turmoil again. Several big clubs are following in his footsteps. Everton are among the most interested.

Everton bid hard but ran into a wall

According to information from the Record picked up by Sport Witness, Everton submitted an offer close to €30 million for Conceicao, a figure that equalled his clause at the time. The Toffees are looking for a pure winger after ruling out the permanent purchases of Harrison and Lindstrom. However, the move has not gone ahead. Conceicao did not agree to move to Merseyside, and the situation has become even more tangled. Pini Zahavi and Jorge Mendes are discussing his future, while his clause now stands at €45 million. Juventus, meanwhile, are looking at ways to bring him back after the good impression he made in Serie A. Everton will have to make a move if they are to compete with other suitors.

A setback that should trigger a reaction?

For Everton, this rejection of Conceicao comes at a delicate moment. The club needs to strengthen their attack to avoid repeating the difficulties of last season. The refusal shows that the sporting project must better seduce young players with potential. Zahavi and Mendes are tightening the rope, and that complicates any immediate negotiation. Perhaps this is the signal to look for realistic alternatives. Kubo, for example, would be a good fit and is still available. The summer market still offers interesting profiles. If they want to convince Conceicao or another top winger, the Toffees will have to guarantee minutes, stability and ambition. Otherwise, they run the risk of running short of talent on the wing. It is time to be agile and realistic.