Report: Everton open talks over signing Lille defender Zeki Celik, £18m fee touted

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Everton are reportedly in talks to sign Lille defender, Zeki Celik, with an £18m deal in the offing from officials at Goodison Park.

That is, according to The Times, who reports that the Toffees are hoping to steal a march on Tottenham and land Celik ahead of Jose Mourinho’s men this summer.

Celik has been among a number of players for Lille that have excelled this season, as the French club continues to be an apparent breeding ground for emerging talent to make their mark in Europe.

Arsenal signed Nicolas Pepe from the Ligue 1 club last term, while Victor Osimhen has completed a big-money move to Napoli this week.

And Celik looks like being the next player to make some money for the French outfit, with Everton apparently willing to pay £18m to bring in a player who would battle with Seamus Coleman for the right-back slot.

A good player to have on board, Everton need strength in this area – TBR View

Carlo Ancelotti needs to ensure he has a strong squad to select from next season so there is going to be movement both in and out at Goodison Park this summer.

Celik, on paper, looks the ideal signing. A strong, quick, and athletic full-back very much in the Premier League mould, the Turkish star has also admitted previously he would love to play in England.

Furthermore, at £18m, it could be a steal in today’s market. Not to mention the fact they’d be beating a rival in Spurs to land the defender.