As suggests the FFC, Everton manager Sean Dyche is eager to strengthen his attacking options before the 2023/24 Premier League season kicks off this week, and the club is now eyeing a move for long-time target Niclas Fullkrug.
After a relatively slow start to the summer transfer window, the Merseyside club has made significant signings, including Ashley Young and Arnaut Danjuma on loan. Additionally, Everton has agreed to a £13 million fee with Sporting Lisbon for 19-year-old striker Youssef Chermiti.
Last season, Everton struggled with a lack of goals and finished just two points above the relegation zone. Thus, the addition of an established center-forward like Fullkrug could prove to be a wise move, as reported by BILD Sport. Werder Bremen, Fullkrug’s current club, is reportedly trying to persuade him to stay by offering him the role of vice-captain.
The interest in Fullkrug from Everton is not new, as journalist Graeme Bailey revealed earlier that he has been on Sean Dyche’s radar for some time, and enquiries have been made. Serie A club Fiorentina is also interested in the German striker, who is reportedly available for a bargain price of €10 million (£9 million).
Last season in the Bundesliga, the 30-year-old Fullkrug scored 16 goals and provided five assists in 28 appearances, playing a crucial role in Bremen’s escape from relegation trouble. He also impressed during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, earning a 7.17 average Sofascore rating and scoring twice in three matches for Germany.
German legend Miroslav Klose praised Fullkrug, describing him as having a “certain presence in the penalty box and a good nose for situations,” with strengths in finishing, both feet, and heading.
Fullkrug’s statistical performances place him among the top 7% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues for passes attempted, the top 10% for progressive passes, and the top 7% for aerials won per 90 minutes. According to FBref, he shares a stylistic and statistical similarity to Tottenham’s Harry Kane.
While Fullkrug may not be on the same level as the “world-class” Kane, the similarity in style could significantly enhance Everton’s squad. Kane, who has been the focal point of Tottenham’s attack, boasts an impressive goal-scoring record for both club and country.
Fullkrug’s dynamism and attacking prowess could inject new life into Everton’s frontline, and while he may not replicate Kane’s feats, his ability to create and score goals would undoubtedly boost the team’s attacking verve.