Should Everton rekindle their old interest in Josip Ilicic?

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Former Everton transfer target Josip Ilicic was a huge thorn in Manchester City’s side on Wednesday night.

The star led the line for Atalanta against City at San Siro – the ground the Serie A outfit have to use for Champions League matches.

The star really stood out during the 1-1 draw, causing plenty of headaches for City centre-backs Fernandinho and Nicolas Otamendi.

Ilicic was impressive holding the ball up and bringing others around him into play and was, at times, Atalanta’s only real danger.

The Slovenia international has been in good form this season – scoring four goals and making three assists in 14 appearances.

Since joining Atalanta in 2017, the star has contributed 32 goals and 22 assists in 91 appearances (meaning an involvement rate of a goal/assist every 1.6 games), underlining his importance for I Nerazzurri.

Ilicic looked very impressive against a strong City side, and perhaps his performance ought to recatch the attention of Everton.

TBR’s view – Ilicic a potential shrewd buy for Everton

Everton were linked with a move for Ilicic in February 2018, with Calciomercato reporting the Toffees were keeping tabs.

Perhaps Everton should be thinking about rekindling their interest with Ilicic out of contract next summer – meaning a cut-price or free transfer could be possible.

Ilicic turns 32 in January, but his energetic display against City would suggest the ace isn’t particularly feeling his age.

Director of football Marcel Brands favours the signing of younger players, but Ilicic – capable of playing on the wings, as a 10 or a striker – could be a really useful squad player at very little cost.