Sport nationEverton FC is eager to bolster their attack this summer, and they have set their sights on Espanyol striker Martin Braithwaite. The Toffees have submitted an offer to sign the 33-year-old on a free transfer when his contract expires this month, according to reports in Spain.
Braithwaite has impressed in La Liga 2, scoring 22 goals last season and helping Espanyol secure promotion back to the top flight. His excellent goal record has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs, including Leicester City and Southampton, who have also tabled offers for the former Barcelona player.
However, Everton appears to be in the driving seat to sign Braithwaite, who could provide a much-needed boost to their attack. The Toffees struggled in front of goal last season, scoring just 40 goals in the Premier League – the second-lowest tally in the division.
Manager Sean Dyche is keen to address this issue and has already made moves to strengthen his squad. The signing of Jack Harrison from Leeds United and Iliman Ndiaye from Marseille are positive steps, but more incomings are expected at Goodison Park.
Braithwaite’s arrival could pave the way for Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s departure. The England international has been linked with a £40m move to Newcastle United, and while the Magpies have pulled out of the deal, Calvert-Lewin may still be sold to help Everton meet their Profit and Sustainability (PSR) rules.
Comparing Braithwaite’s statistics to Calvert-Lewin’s last season highlights the former’s superior goal-scoring ability. Braithwaite scored nearly three times more goals and assists than Calvert-Lewin, with a higher pass completion rate and take-on success percentage. While Calvert-Lewin has been Everton’s main focal point in recent years, Braithwaite’s impressive figures suggest he could be a more clinical replacement.
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