Everton are exploring a deal to sign Carlos Soler from Paris Saint-Germain. According to Florian Plettenberg, they could derail West Ham United’s plans to acquire the Spanish midfielder.
The 27-year-old has been on Everton’s radar for some time, and their interest in him is concrete. The Toffees have contacted PSG to express their desire to bring Soler to Goodison Park.
However, West Ham remain in the running for the midfielder and are actively working on their next steps to secure his signature before the transfer deadline.
PSG are reportedly open to selling Soler and have no plans for a loan move. The player’s prospects of regular first-team football at the Parc des Princes have diminished following the arrival of Joao Neves from Benfica, and he needs to find a landing spot.
Soler began his career at his hometown club, Valencia, making 226 appearances for Los Che and netting 36 goals.
He helped Valencia win the Copa del Rey in 2019 before joining PSG in the summer of 2022. Despite making 63 appearances across two seasons, Soler started just 26 Ligue 1 matches.
Three midfielders West Ham could sign if Everton scupper the Soler deal
We have argued why Soler doesn’t fit the bill, and Everton might be about to do us a favour by hijacking this deal.
However, manager Julen Lopetegui still wants midfield reinforcement as he seeks someone to control proceedings, and there are a few smart options in the market.
AC Milan star Ismael Bennacer finds himself down the pecking order after a long-term injury kept him out of contention at the Italian club. He is exploring his options. The diminutive Algerian is a classy operator who can set the tempo for Lopetegui’s side.
Soler’s PSG teammate Fabian Ruiz is another excellent shout. The 2024 European Championship winner could also struggle to break into the PSG first team and might opt for a move out of France. He will be a top pick-up.
Real Madrid star Dani Ceballos is also available, having struggled to displace the Galacticos and could be a wise pick for the Hammers.
He has Premier League experience and worked with Lopetegui in the Spanish capital.