Everton and Liverpool look to battle for Sevilla keeper

Everton are again being mentioned as facing off with Merseyside rivals Liverpool for another young player in 22 year old keeper Sergio Rico. The Spanish keeper has yet to make an appearance on the international scene, but has been impressive with his club side Sevilla.

This season he has played in 39 games in all competitions with 14 clean sheets and 48 goals conceded. He seems comparable to Jack Butland in terms of potential cost and skill. Butland has allowed 39 goals in 35 games this season with 12 clean sheets. On the other hand Butland is under Stoke City control until 2021 and Rico is only signed through the summer of 2019.

He's on the fringe currently of the international squad and Vicente Del Bosque has yet to play him on international duty. That could help Everton make a smart purchase though before he becomes a bigger name internationally. Current speculation puts his asking price around £15 million. Although there is possible interest from Southampton as well and that could raise the price for potential bidders.

It's unclear if Everton want to go with a young keeper to battle with Joel Robles or an established veteran to take the spot. If they signed a player like Rico though they would surely see Robles return to the bench and cup competitions primarily.