Given the ease with which Everton secured their first three signings of the summer, there was always bound to be at least one which faced a little pushback.
After all, to secure top talent, it can be expected that they will not be alone in their efforts to sign a player.
That is no better exemplified than through Jaden Philogene, who faces a three-way decision regarding where his next move will be.
Premier League rivals are swirling, and all seem to have agreed a deal with Hull City for his services.
Now, it’s just down to the player.
Everton’s chances of signing Jaden Philogene rated
Thus far, however, we have not really been given much of an insight into the winger’s thoughts on the matter.
He did briefly admit that Spain was his dream, but also had to shut down that potential move after Philogene’s agent flew to Barcelona to force through that move.
So, that leaves just English options, with Ipswich Town, Crystal Palace and the Toffees the three frontrunners.
There have been plenty of contrasting reports on his preferred move, and now journalist Baz Cooper has offered an update.
Everton’s interest in Jaden Philogene has been well-documented, but so too has their competition.
And now, this latest damaging update has provided a fresh hit to their chances as the reporter writes: ‘City’s belief with Jaden Philogene remains that he will go to Ipswich Town. Told there has not been a deal agreed with Everton.’
Jaden Philogene would bring the X-Factor to Everton
Despite the recent success that Dwight McNeil has had for Everton, and how effective Jack Harrison proved to be within Sean Dyche’s system, many might question why a winger seems so high on their priority list.
However, for all their upsides, this duo both lack something that Philogene would definitely bring: an X-Factor.
The 22-year-old is direct, dynamic and supremely skilful, and would certainly get fans off their seats at Goodison Park.
His trickery is second to none, and yet he blended such finesse with a fine end product too last season, scoring 12 and assisting six in the Championship.
Being allowed to nurture his talent at that level for a year has seen him flourish, and he could now bring that youthful energy and excitement to Merseyside in an effort to convert his talents to the Premier League.
Whether he proves to be an instant hit or not, at the very least he will threaten full-backs with a level of skill and speed that Everton currently do not have. Hopefully they still have time to win this transfer race.
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