Andy Hunter
There is increased confidence at Everton that a deal for Barcelona central defender Yerry Mina will get over the line before 5pm. As mentioned earlier, Everton have been trying to prise the Colombia international from Camp Nou for at least six weeks amid intense competition for his signature. A deal had not been agreed with the club or player as of yesterday but progress has been made in that time and Everton are hopeful that Mina will become the addition that manager Marco Silva has wanted from day one. Andre Gomes has been offered to Everton on loan during the negotiations with Barcelona. A deal for the former Valencia midfielder has not been ruled out by Everton but their priorities are Mina and finalising Bernard’s free transfer.
Middlesbrough are close to signing Mo Besic from Everton for £6m. The midfielder enjoyed a successful loan spell at The Riverside last season and, despite links with Leeds United, is in line to return to Boro on a permanent basis today.