Hellas Verona have rejected Everton’s initial bid for defender Jackson Tchatchoua, according to Tutto Mercato.
The Toffees’ first offer of £6.7 million plus £1.7 million in add-ons was considered insufficient by the Serie A club, which has countered with a valuation of around £10 million.
Verona aims to make a substantial profit on Tchatchoua, who was recently acquired permanently for just £2.5 million.
The 22-year-old right-back has attracted interest from several English clubs, including West Ham, who are seeking a backup for Vladimir Coufal.
Everton also need to address their right-back situation this summer, following underwhelming performances from Seamus Coleman, Nathan Patterson, and Ashley Young. Tchatchoua’s strong performances last season at Verona, where he contributed to a mid-table finish and assisted two goals in 26 appearances, have drawn significant attention.
Hellas Verona, impressed by Tchatchoua’s performances, exercised the option to buy him earlier this summer after initially loaning him from Belgian side Royal Charleroi SC.
Despite having signed a three-year contract with Verona, Tchatchoua might be on the move again as Everton pursue a deal for the young defender.
Everton are likely to remain active in the transfer market despite the conclusion of takeover talks with The Friedkin Group, aiming to avoid a ‘fire sale’ before the window closes.
In related news, Everton and Napoli have agreed on a loan deal for attacker Jesper Lindstrom, as reported by Sky Sports journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
Lindstrom is set to join Everton on a temporary basis, with an option to buy at the end of the season.
The Denmark international will be looking to revive his career at Goodison Park after a challenging start at Napoli, where he failed to score or assist in his first season.
Lindstrom could become Everton’s third summer signing, following the arrivals of striker Iliman Ndiaye and midfielder Tim Iroegbunam.
