Speaking to GoodisonNews, former Everton striker Kevin Campbell has raised doubts about the potential signing of El Bilal Toure, stating that the young forward is an “expensive” target for the club and lacks the necessary experience to lead the line effectively. Campbell’s comments come as Almeria’s managing director confirmed an official offer from Everton, alongside two bids from Italian clubs.
While an official confirmation of the bid’s value has not been made, RMC Sport journalist Sacha Tavolieri reported that the offer was worth €40 million (£34 million) spread over multiple instalments. However, Toure, a young international from Mali, has only scored 16 senior goals in Ligue 1 and La Liga so far. With Ellis Simms already departing on loan to Coventry City, Campbell believes Everton should focus on signing a more experienced striker to lead the line under manager Sean Dyche.
Campbell, now a Sky Sports pundit, expressed his concerns about the potential transfer fee, stating, “Yeah, it does sound like a lot. You don’t know if he’ll be able to adjust; he potentially isn’t mature enough yet.” Campbell believes Everton should target strikers with experience in playing in the Premier League, rather than investing in a young player who has not played in English football.
The former Everton striker also questioned the club’s financial capacity to secure such a signing, saying, “Do Everton have the money? I don’t know. I don’t think they do. So they’re going to have to move and shake.” Campbell believes that prioritizing a 21-year-old to lead the line might not be the best decision, considering the struggles experienced by Ellis Simms, who was previously in that role for the club.
While Everton is undoubtedly in need of attacking reinforcements, with their pursuit of El Bilal Toure ongoing for over a year, Campbell emphasizes that cost-effective additions should be the priority. The club has reportedly denied the offer made by Almeria’s managing director, but the need for attacking options remains evident, with Simms departing, Dominic Calvert-Lewin facing fitness issues, and potential exits for Tom Cannon and Neal Maupay on the horizon.
As time passes in the transfer window without significant signings, Everton fans may grow increasingly anxious. The club needs to address their attacking deficiencies while making sensible and cost-effective additions to bolster the squad.