Everton have held discussions with Mats Hummels’ agent about signing the defender on a free transfer this summer, according to HITC. The news outlet reports (17 June) that Hummels’ representatives have offered his services after he left Borussia Dortmund at the end of his contract.
Hummels is eager to move to the Premier League, and several clubs, including Everton, have been approached. The Toffees are now considering whether to make an offer.
Everton currently faces significant financial issues, but new ownership by Dan Friedkin, who is set to buy the club from Farhad Moshiri, could change their circumstances. Regardless, free transfers remain a valuable strategy for strengthening the squad, as demonstrated by the acquisition of Ashley Young last summer, who brought experience and quality to the team.
Hummels, at 35, still holds a strong pedigree, having been a crucial part of the Dortmund team that reached the Champions League final recently. However, his age might be a concern. With James Tarkowski favored by manager Sean Dyche and Jarrad Branthwaite highly regarded by the club, signing Hummels could seem unnecessary.
If Branthwaite were to be sold for the substantial fee Everton expects, bringing Hummels in as a short-term replacement could be wise. Nevertheless, securing this deal won’t be straightforward and appears unlikely to happen.
