Everton trail Parma in race to sign Josh Zirkzee on loan
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.
Read Everton Verdict
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.