As the transfer window reaches its crucial stage, Everton is making waves with its pursuit of Salernitana’s prolific striker Boulaye Dia.
According to Sportwitness via Gazzetta dello Sport, the Senegalese international had a standout season in Serie A, attracting interest from various clubs, including AC Milan and Fiorentina.
However, Everton’s long-standing interest and a potential player-plus-cash deal involving Neal Maupay could seal the deal for the Toffees, making it a win-win move for all parties involved.
Everton’s need for attacking reinforcements is evident, with their disappointing performance and lack of goal-scoring during the previous season.
The departure of Ellis Simms and the potential exits of Demarai Gray and Tom Cannon have further increased the need for fresh attacking options. Everton is determined to bolster its front line, and Boulaye Dia fits the bill perfectly.
Boulaye Dia’s performance during the 2022-2023 season was nothing short of impressive, netting 15 goals and providing 6 assists in 33 appearances for Salernitana making the 26-year-old the third-highest scorer in Serie A, showcasing his goal-scoring prowess.
The Senegalese striker possesses remarkable goal-scoring instincts, reflected in his impressive 0.32 goals per shot and 0.71 goals per shot on target, both ranking in the 99th percentile.
Dia’s strengths extend beyond just scoring goals; his strong hold-up play, excellent assists, key passes, and successful take-ons per 90, all in the 75th percentile or better, make him a complete attacking package.
Dia’s success, however, comes with a price tag. As per reports His release clause, initially set at £21.7 million is set to expire at midnight on 21 July and Salernitana now values him at £34.6 million. This hefty price may pose a financial challenge for Everton. To make this deal feasible, Everton could consider a player-plus-cash offer, involving Neal Maupay.
According to Sportswitness via Corriere dello Sport, Salernitana’s football director, Morgan De Sanctis, has been keen on Maupay for some time, making the French striker an attractive bargaining chip in the negotiation process.
For Salernitana, a potential player swap with Maupay could also prove beneficial. Offloading Dia for a lesser transfer fee while acquiring Maupay’s services would align with the club’s financial interests and provide them with an alternative striking option.
Everton must act swiftly as the window nears its closure, securing Dia’s signature would be a significant coup for the club. He could potentially be the missing piece in Everton’s attacking puzzle, providing the much-needed goal-scoring threat and creativity in the final third.
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