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Everton in 'win-win' situation as Javi Rodriguez could get nabbed on the cheap
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- Everton in 'win-win' situation as Javi Rodriguez could get nabbed on the cheap
Javi Rodriguez is on Everton's transfer radar as the January transfer window approaches.
The Toffees had plenty of priorities this summer, and will look to fill the gaps in the striker and full-back departments this winter.
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The centre-back area has looked the same at Hill Dickinson in recent years, with Jarrad Branthwaite, Michael Keane and James Tarkowski competing for a spot.
However, the harsh truth is that Tarkowski and Keane are both ageing, and the pair do not have long left performing at a top level in the Premier League.
There's also no guarantee that Branthwaite will remain in L3, with Manchester United long-term admirers of the 24-year-old.
That's where Everton's pursuit of Rodriguez comes in, with Celta Vigo's release clause already known.
What Everton need to do to convince Javi Rodriguez
Rodriguez has a £33.4million release clause with Celta Vigo , which Everton may reportedly have to trigger to sign him in January.
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The centre-back has come through Celta Vigo's ranks and has made 76 appearances in La Liga for the Spanish outfit, impressing several European clubs.
According to El Nacional , for Rodriguez, a move to the Premier League makes sense if it's for a suitable project.
The next move must offer him real possibilities of starting, with the vision to improve and maintain importance, similar to how he has progressed with Vigo.
His employers would also need to find an alternative replacement in the same window if they were to lose their 23-year-old defensive star.
While Rodriguez' release clause is known, it's said that a "high offer" could still tempt Vigo to give up the Spaniard.
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That said, Everton could actually sign him for less than his £33.4m release clause.
A "compelling proposition" and a destination that guarantees Rodriguez minutes could be a "win-win" sale for the player and Celta Vigo.
But who are Everton up against for the defender?
Everton could turn heads with £33.4m Javi Rodriguez transfer offer as contact made Who is Everton's English competition for Rodriguez?
David Moyes has taken some flak for his use of youngsters, with many suggesting that he does not give enough opportunities.
However, the Scot is going to have to give some players a chance soon, especially given that certain positions are crowded with ageing individuals.
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Rodriguez and Branthwaite could be the future of the Toffees' backline, but only if the Blues win the battle for the versatile centre-half.
Fulham and Newcastle United are the two other interested Premier League sides
That said, Everton aren't exactly up against overwhelming competition.
