After failing to break into the top half of the points table this season in the Premier League, Everton might make aggressive moves in the transfer market, and the latest player on their radar is Bournemouth attacker, Joshua King.
The Cherries, who will play in the Championship next season, are ready to offload the former Manchester United man this summer for around £15m, and reports from The Sun claim that The Toffees are ready to make a bid for the 28-year-old.
Joshua King and his Premier League numbers
The Norwegian attacker moved to Bournemouth in 2015 and was a regular in the first team under former manager Eddie Howe. He has made 170 appearances for the club, managing 50 goals and 17 assists in the process.
His best return came in the 2016/17 season, when he managed 16 goals and two assists. King almost replicated it last season, mustering 12 goals and three assists to his name.
(Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
However, he scored just six goals and four assists this past season, making 24 league starts and failing to keep his club in the top flight.
An excellent finisher who loves the ball at his feet, King is a hard player to dispossess in the final third and the positions he takes up makes him a dangerous player.
In his time at Bournemouth, King has featured in multiple positions. He was used as a playmaker at times, and can play anywhere in the attacking areas, showing great versatility.
He is also a regular for the Norwegian national team, with whom he has 46 caps. His experience could be invaluable for an Everton side heading in a new direction under Carlo Ancelotti.
Where Does He Fit In?
Richarlison and Dominic Calvert-Lewin score 13 goals apiece this past season, but the next top scorer at the club was Bernard, with just three to his name.
While King may not be able to displace the first two names, his versatility certainly makes him an attractive option for Ancelotti.
Moise Kean and Sandro Ramirez are still on Everton’s books but the quality and experience that King will bring to Goodison Park, and that at just £15m, makes him a must-buy for Ancelotti.
With Howe being shown the door at Bournemouth and King’s dream move to Manchester United looking unlikely, a move back to the Premier League with Everton might just be best for all parties involved.
