Everton FC is reportedly eager to secure the signature of Villarreal striker Boulaye Dia this summer. The Senegal international is currently on loan at Salernitana, but his impressive goal-scoring feats have attracted the attention of several top-tier clubs, including Leeds United and AC Milan. The Toffees’ striking concerns have been well documented this season, with summer signing Neal Maupay misfiring and Dominic Calvert-Lewin struggling with injuries. Thus, it doesn’t come as a surprise that Everton is diligently exploring other options to boost their frontline.
The 24-year-old could be just the player the Merseyside club needs to reignite their attack. Dia has been in impressive form this season, registering 17 goal contributions in 28 Serie A appearances for Salernitana. He is just one goal away from breaking the club’s record for most goals in a Serie A season.
Everton’s pursuit of Dia won’t be an easy task, as Leeds United and AC Milan are also interested in securing his services. Furthermore, Dia has expressed his desire to continue with Salernitana, indicating that a potential move to the Premier League may not be on the cards. Regardless, the Toffees’ persistent interest in the forward indicates that they believe he could add value to their squad.
It’s clear that Everton needs to make significant changes to their attack this summer, and the acquisition of Boulaye Dia could be a step in the right direction. The player’s creative abilities also make him an attractive proposition, ranking in the 94th percentile for assists per 90 in the past year when compared to other forwards. With a valuation of €12m (£10.6m), Dia could be an affordable addition to Rafael Benitez’s squad, and at 24, the player is approaching his prime, making him a long-term prospect for the club. Only time will tell if Everton can convince the forward to make the move to Goodison Park, but if they manage to pull it off, it could be a shrewd piece of business for the Toffees.
