Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich are continuing to assess the most ideal destination for young Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee amid interest from Everton.
According to Tuttomercato, Serie A side Parma lead the race ahead of the Toffees for the 19-year-old’s signature on loan, although the Merseysiders remain firmly in the hunt. Carlo Ancelotti’s side are said to be unable to match the promise of regular game-time which can be afforded by Parma, something which could prove to be a stumbling block for the Goodison Park outfit.
Zirkzee would likely come in as cover for the injured Dominic Calvert-Lewin and may find it difficult to compete with Everton’s top scorer.
From a Bayern perspective, it only makes sense that they would pick the suitor with the best possibility of offering meaningful prospects of development.
After picking up a three-game ban upon sent off in the 3. Liga against 1860 Munich for Bayern’s reserve team, the Champions League holders are reportedly hastening their desire to offload Zirkzee on a temporary basis.
Everton hold an advantage in that Director of Football Marcel Brands has spent time with the youngster at Feyenoord in the Eredivisie and has watched his development as a result.
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The 19-year-old is a staggering 6 foot 4 in terms of height and could function as an ideal target man-style alternative to Calvert-Lewin.
Parma appear to hold the aces in terms of a more obvious lack of competition for a Zirkzee-style striker, so Everton will need to act fast if they are truly keen on the player. Bayern are reportedly set to make a final decision later this week.
Perhaps Brands’ intervention and an offer of a loan fee could tempt the current Champions League holders to let him join the Toffees.
