Everton in talks to sign Wolfsburg’s Croatian winger
Published:In a week where Croatia international Ivan Rakitic completed a dream move to Barcelona another Ivan, also in the Croatian World Cup squad, could also be on the verge of a move.
Ivan Perisic has caught the eye in recent weeks with his performances for Croatia in the warm-up match against Australia and the tournament opener versus Brazil which has led to links with Manchester United.
But in particular, Everton have been impressed with the 25-year-old and have opened talks with Wolfsburg over a potential move for the winger.
The former Borussia Dortmund man has made 30 appearances for his country and has scored three goals and will be hoping to add to that tally in Brazil.
Perisic can play on both wings and with the Toffees looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign, in which they will take part in the Europa League for the first time since 2005.
Roberto Martinez will have to cough up at least £8m to land the forward and if he puts in a blinding performance against Cameroon in his side’s second World Cup match that fee could rise.
Wolfsburg are looking to strengthening different areas of their own squad and will weigh up any bids they receive before deciding on the Croatian’s future.
Perisic is 9/1 to score the first goal for the Vatreni in their must-win encounter against Cameroon in Manaus – a game Niko Kovac’s side are 8/13 favourites to win with Ladbrokes.
The former Club Brugge star is 3/1 to score at any time at the Amazonia Arena and will be keen to impress any potential suitors with his performance against the Indomitable Lions.
Everton, who are 125/1 to cause a shock and win the Premier League next season, are looking to strengthen in other areas as well and are hopeful of tying up a deal for Gareth Barry.
Barry was on loan at Goodison Park last season as the Merseyside club finished fifth in the league and is currently weighing up a two-year deal from the club.
Martinez also remains in the hunt to sign Romelu Lukaku again as he looks to build on his side’s success last season.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
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