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According to Guardian journalist Ed Aarons, Everton are making a final push to acquire Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi in the January transfer window.
Apologies - Everton are attempting to PURCHASE Michy Batshuayi from Chelsea. They are hoping to do a deal before tomorrow's deadline #efc #cfc
— Ed Aarons (@ed_aarons) January 30, 2019
Everton emerged as candidates for Michy’s signature earlier this month after it was confirmed that Valencia were looking to cut his loan deal short. Everton were reportedly willing to go as high as €30 million, but Chelsea were wanting closer to €45 million.
Michy had a loan deal lined up with Monaco, but Chelsea’s preference for a sale led to delays, and an eventual cancellation in light of Thierry Henry’s sacking. Henry had coached Batshuayi in the Belgian national team, but those hopes of a reunion were dashed, just like Henry’s aims to get the team out of the relegation zone.
With just a day left in the window, Chelsea might be more willing to accept Everton’s offer, though Batshuayi does have 2.5 years left on his contract still, so there isn’t a huge rush (beyond just saving him from an awkward second half of the season at Valencia or wherever he ends up training).
Last resort for Michy Batshuayi? Everton, who are in still touch, buying him on deadline day. Not a lot of options left anymore. Valencia have signed a new striker. #cfc pic.twitter.com/mzHHL5NyNX
— Kristof Terreur (@HLNinEngeland) January 30, 2019