According to reports, Everton will look to improve their squad with the departure of Romelu Lukaku and are turning to Manchester United forward Danny Welbeck.
Belgian striker Lukaku, who helped Everton achieve fifth place with 15 goals, will return to Chelsea as part of his loan deal and The Toffees will be left needing another realistic attacking target.
The England international became concerned about his future at Old Trafford when David Moyes was in charge due to the lack of playing time, but now he feels determined to fight for his place under new boss Louis van Gaal. Even though the Dutchman will prefer Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie as a powerful striking force so game time will be hard to come by.
Van Gaal has already spoken to assistant Ryan Giggs over the future of several first-team players and although the Welshman is a known fan of Welbeck, the 23 year-old may be offloaded this summer to fund other transfers such as Edinson Cavani and Kevin Strootman.
The Red Devils could even use the sale of Welbeck as an added bonus to the transfer of Ross Barkley to Old Trafford, a player Everton are reluctant to sell as numerous Premier League clubs are reportedly interested.
Welbeck’s current wages of £54,000 a week will make him an affordable and modest target for the Evertonians whilst the club also battle to secure a permanent move for Gareth Barry, who enjoyed a successful loan spell from Manchester City.
By Phil Wellbrook
