Reports surface that Gabbiadini deal reached with Napoli

UPDATE (15:42 BST):

It’s now looking like Everton have pulled the plug on this transfer, again.

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According to several news sources this morning it looks like all parties are in agreement for a Manolo Gabbiadini move from Napoli to Everton before the end of the transfer window. The only hold up now appears to be a wish by the Naples team to find a replacement.

The rumored names include a deal for Manchester City striker Wilfried Bony who has little shot to break into Pep Guardiola’s starting XI and is looking for a move this summer. He had been rumored as a potential target to Everton as well, but those talks never seem to go anywhere. The other target is Genoa striker Leonardo Pavoletti although his price may make him a tough target to lure away.

What this all means in the end is that Everton should complete the Gabbiadini move if these reports are to be believed and have a striker that can partner with Romelu Lukaku and replace the soon to depart Oumar Niasse. Lukaku has shown last season that a full season and cup run can wear him down and an accomplished partner and backup could be just what Everton need to keep them both fresh.

Gabbiadini would add another threat with his head as well as shots from distance. Ever since Tim Cahill left Everton have struggled to attack crosses and corners in the box with a head for goal. Ramiro Funes Mori may be the best we have right now and he’s only up on corners. Also Everton are reluctant to shoot from distance much of the time and fail to get shot attempts do to it. Gabbiadini would be a welcome addition to the squad and another good signing this window.