Everton have reportedly joined Newcastle United and Tottenham in the race for the out-of-favor Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey. Per Gazzetta Dello Sport, as reported by Calciomercato, the Toffees boss Rafael Benitez is a fan of the Wales international and looks to take him to Goodison Park this winter.
Ramsey has fallen out of favor at Juventus following a couple of underwhelming seasons at the Allianz Stadium. Since joining the club as a free agent from Arsenal, the 30-year-old has recorded just 70 appearances in all competitions, tallying a mere six goals and six assists. Massimiliano Allegri’s return to the helm has failed to reinvigorate the playmaker’s comeback.
Ramsey has made three Serie A appearances this term, failing to register a single league start since Juventus’ 2-2 draw with Udinese on the opening matchday of the season. Since he remains one of the highest earners in Turin, the record-time Italian champions are keen to get rid of his salary as soon as possible. It’s understood Juve are willing to negotiate Ramsey’s departure in the January transfer window.
In the meantime, the Welshman is ready to wave goodbye to Serie A to get his career back on track ahead of Wales’ appearance in the World Cup play-offs. Per multiple reports, Ramsey is desperate to return to the Premier League, where he made a name for himself back at Arsenal. The attacking midfielder’s wish may well be fulfilled this winter, with several English clubs hopeful of capturing his signature.
After Newcastle and Tottenham, Everton are now credited with an interest in the ex-Gunners star, as under-fire Benitez aims to strengthen his squad in the upcoming transfer window. A lack of an illustrious playmaker has been a problem for the Toffees this season. They have netted just 1.21 goals per game on average this Premier League campaign and are currently hovering five points clear of the drop zone.
Everton’s decision to part with James Rodriguez earlier this season has come back to haunt them. Therefore, the Goodison chiefs are hell-bent on rectifying their mistake in January.