As per the Liverpool Echo, Everton are mulling over signing Lazio defender Wesley Hoedt.
So also are Southampton as they look to cover for Liverpool-target Virgil van Dijk were the £60million-rated centre-back to leave for Anfield.
The Toffees on the other hand see Hoedt as a perfect replacement for the injured Ramiro Funes Mori. To Liverpool, though, he could be the ultimate decider and wild card in their move for Van Dijk.
With Everton winning the race to land the Dutch international, Southampton’s stance on not letting Van Dijk might further toughen.
Saints new boss Mauricio Pellegrino is still hoping the former Celtic star changes his mind as per his exit wish.
The manager reportedly wants to talk the Dutch defender out of leaving this week, but if he doesn’t succeed, the Saints will have no option than to turn to Hoedt.
Liverpool would hope that happens, and most importantly, that Everton lose out on the £12million-rated Lazio man so things don’t get further complicated regarding their protracted move for Van Dijk.
It’s an interesting 3-way battle right now for 2 defenders between this trio, and that the Merseyside rivalry is even a huge determinant in their transfer market activities makes it the more interesting.
