Everton should attempt last-ditch move for Neres as Zaha alternative

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Everton’s hopes of signing Wilfried Zaha this summer appear to be fading.

The Toffees failed with a £55 million bid last week (Sky Sports), and the Ivorian is expected back at Crystal Palace this week, with the club having made it clear on numerous occasions this summer that they do not wish to sell.

At this late stage in the transfer window, Palace doubt their chances of finding a suitable replacement for the former Manchester United man (Evening Standard).

Zaha apparently had his heart set on a move to Arsenal, but the Gunners appear to be closing in on Nicolas Pepe now.

It all points to Everton being unlikely to sign Zaha.

With Marco Silva needing fresh impetus in the wide areas, the club should be reigniting their interest in Ajax winger David Neres.

TBR’s view

At the start of the month, Neres appeared to end speculation of a summer move by declaring that ‘my future is with Ajax’ (Dutch outlet AD).

Everton face a huge task trying to sign Zaha from a stubborn Palace, and Marcel Brands should considering giving one last push to try and sign Neres as an alternative.

Linked again recently by Calciomercato, the electric Brazilian enjoyed an amazing season in 2018/19 in which he scored 12 goals and made 15 assists in 50 appearances.

He would be a superb addition for Everton, who must upgrade on the likes of Theo Walcott and Yannick Bolasie and replace the departed Ademola Lookman.