Everton have moved to open direct talks with Atletico Madrid over a deal for right-back Nahuel Molina, with reports in Italy suggesting Juventus fear the Toffees could complete a deal first.
Molina has been on Everton’s radar for several days, alongside interest from Roma, Napoli and Atalanta. Atletico are said to be willing to sell as they look to raise funds elsewhere in the squad, with manager Diego Simeone reportedly no longer viewing the 28-year-old as central to his plans.
The Argentina international has one year left on his contract, a factor working in Everton’s favour. He is valued at around €15m, with reports suggesting a deal could be agreed for a similar figure given his contract situation.
Molina joined Atletico from Udinese in 2022 and has made over 40 appearances in each of his four seasons in Madrid. He won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022 and has since added two Copa America titles.
Right-back has been a problem position for Everton throughout the summer, with Nathan Patterson the only recognised senior option and David Moyes instead using Jake O’Brien there for Saturday’s win over Hamburg.
A deal for Molina would give Moyes an experienced, ready-made solution rather than a developmental option.
No formal bid has been confirmed, but the pace of developments in the last few hours suggests Everton are looking to move quickly before Juventus or their other rivals can intervene.
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