Earlier today Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Everton have a deal in place to sign Sporting CP forward Youssef Chermiti.
The football journalist took to Twitter to report that the Blues have a ‘deal in place’ for the 19-year-old forward.
Indeed, Romano tweeted: “EXCL: Everton reached an agreement in principle with Sporting to sign Youssef Chermiti as new striker.
Deal in place between clubs – verbally agreed in the recent hours for 2004 born striker to join PL side.”
Chermiti could be an exciting prospect at Everton, provided they do secure his signature
The news regarding Chermiti has come somewhat out of the blue, though Everton appear to have been working behind the scenes for the young forward’s signature.
The 19-year-old scored three goals and contributed two assists in 16 league games for Sporting last season and has represented Portugal up to U-19 level.
Fellow Premier League clubs Bournemouth and Wolves were also reportedly interested in Chermiti’s signature this summer, though Everton now look to have won the race.
The young forward is under contract in Lisbon until the summer of 2027 so there will likely be a substantial fee for the young man.
At 6ft 4in, Chermiti could pose a dominating presence upfront, though the young forward’s limited experience makes him a raw but malleable talent.
Everton scored just 34 Premier League goals last season and remained in the top-flight by just two points, with the need to add to the club’s limited attacking options more urgent than ever.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is yet to feature during Sean Dyche’s pre-season programme as he recovers from injury, and Ellis Simms moved to Coventry City in a £3.5m deal.
The loan signing of versatile attacker Arnaut Danjuma alleviates the pressure on DCL somewhat, though at least one out-and-out centre-forward is a must this summer.
Everton have wasted a considerable amount of money on Premier League castoffs in recent seasons, so the potential signing of Youssef Chermiti could represent a change in strategy from the club, which can only be a positive thing.