Report: Everton eye Celtic target Aurelio Buta bid

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Everton are set to make a bid for Aurelio Buta with The Sun reporting that Rafa Benitez has made the 24-year-old a key target.

Benitez is keen to strengthen his right-back options before the window shuts. Seamus Coleman is into the twilight of his career. And Jonjoe Kenny looks to be struggling to prove himself as a potential successor.

It seems that Benitez feels that Buta would be a better option. It is claimed that the Portuguese has impressed the Toffees scouts in recent weeks.

And according to The Sun, the Spaniard now views Buta as a top target.

The report notes that the defender will cost around £3 million with less than a year to go on his contract with Royal Antwerp.

It is noted that Celtic made a £1 million bid. But obviously, Everton should find it considerably easier to meet his asking price.

Will Everton links with Buta spur Celtic into action?

Celtic still need a new right-back this summer. Anthony Ralston has actually been superb under Ange Postecoglou. But the Hoops still need further depth.

So it will be very interesting to see if Everton’s interest inspires the Bhoys into action.

It was previously reported that Celtic were incredibly close to getting a deal done.

Obviously, they may not be as close as previously thought. But clearly, he is a player that the Hoops would like to bring to Parkhead.

So perhaps the links with Everton may catch the attention of those north of the border.