Everton are reportedly interested in signing Al Ittihad winger Jota.
The 24-year-old only moved to the Saudi Arabian side during the summer in a £25m deal but has been omitted from Al Ittihad’s squad for the season.
Indeed, the surprise omission has left the Portuguese attacker in limbo, and Everton are looking to take advantage of the unique situation.
That is according to 90MIN, who report that talks are ongoing between Jota and Al Ittihad to release the 24-year-old from his contract, meaning he would be available as a free agent.
However, the Toffees could face competition from Spurs, where the winger could reunite with Ange Postecoglou, who he played under during his time at Celtic.
Indeed, a number of Premier League clubs are also eying up a potential bargain, including Brentford, Crystal Palace, Fulham and West Ham United, while a return to Celtic is also a possibility.
Everton could lose out due to reunion between Jota and Postecoglou
Jota became a standout player during his two-year spell in the SPL, scoring 21 goals and contributing 21 assists in 62 league games, however a £25m deal saw him join the likes of Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante at Al Ittihad.
The Saudi side could be tempted to hold onto the winger until January to recoup some of their investment, though the winger’s contract could be ripped up, making him available for free which would suit Everton who are still struggling with financial uncertainty.
If Spurs want the 24-year-old, it seems likely that the Portuguese forward would want to reunite with his former boss, but he could be an exceptional signing for the Blues if he can be lured to Goodison Park.
However, with his current salary in the region of £200,000 per week, the former Celtic forward will need to take a considerable pay cut wherever he ends up.