Everton named among seven European clubs interested in 77-goal free agent

Everton have reportedly been named among seven European clubs interested in signing free-agent striker Mauro Icardi.

The former Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain forward has been without a club since leaving Galatasaray following the expiry of his contract in the summer, but speculation over his future has continued.

According to TyC Sports, Everton are among seven European sides showing interest in the 33-year-old, alongside Tottenham, PAOK, Elche, Real Betis, Besiktas and Benfica. Brazilian clubs Atletico Mineiro and Sao Paulo have also been linked.

The report adds an important qualification, however: Icardi has yet to receive a formal proposal and the various approaches surrounding him have not developed into concrete negotiations.

Icardi again linked with Everton

Everton’s inclusion is not entirely new. Icardi has previously been linked with a move to Merseyside, with earlier reports suggesting his availability had been brought to the club’s attention.

The latest update nevertheless comes at a time when David Moyes has limited established options at centre-forward. Thierno Barry is Everton’s only recognised senior striker following Beto’s departure for Fiorentina.

Icardi would bring considerable experience and an established scoring record. The Argentina international left Galatasaray having scored 77 goals in 134 appearances across four seasons in Turkey.

There is, though, a clear difference between reported interest and Everton attempting to complete a deal. TyC Sports does not report that the Blues have made an offer or entered negotiations with Icardi, while the number of clubs being linked underlines the uncertainty surrounding his next move.

For now, Everton can be placed among his reported suitors rather than at the head of the queue (as ever).

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