Everton dealt another blow as target reportedly close to signing for Italian giants

According to Italian newspaper La Nazione and as cited by Calciomercato, Genoa striker and reported Everton target Giovanni Simeone is closing in on a move to Serie A outfit Fiorentina.

The Toffees still want one more striker this summer and have been linked with the Argentine youngster since the transfer window opened.

However, they might have to strike Simeone’s name off their wishlist as La Viola have agreed a £16million deal with Genoa for their man.

The 22-year-old arrived Italy for £2.7million last August, and his striking quality has already seen him also attract the likes of Crystal Palace, Tottenham and Torino.

Simeone scored 12 Serie A goals in 35 appearances, with his brace in the 3-1 victory over Juventus last November the highlight of an impressive maiden European campaign.

Everton started the new Premier League campaign with ex-Malaga man Sandro Ramirez as their number 9, but they need a quality cover for the tedious campaign ahead.

Simeone would have been a perfect option for the Toffees off the bench, but they will now have to look elsewhere for another addition to their forward line with the Argentine preferring to remain in Italy for the time being.