Everton ready lower approach for Florentino Luis after January bid

Everton are preparing a new bid for Benfica midfielder Florentino Luis after seeing an offer rejected during the January transfer window, according to O Jogo.

The Portuguese newspaper reported [22 May, pg 10] that the bid the Toffees are preparing ahead of the summer transfer window is set to be lower than their original £25.5million offer.

It is understood that, despite attempting to offer a lower transfer fee for the Portuguese star, the club are hoping their interest will surpass any other possible bids for the 24-year-old.

Could Everton sign Benfica star Florentino Luis this summer?

Considering the Toffees’ current midfielder situation, Luis would be a very welcomed addition to Sean Dyche’s squad ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Amadou Onana has been linked with a move away from Goodison Park this summer, and with Idrissa Gana Gueye’s injury issues, and Andre Gomes’ and Dele Alli being released, Everton will be in desperate need of midfield additions.

The Portuguese defensive midfielder has become an incredibly utilised player at Benfica, forming a trio of young stars in the middle of the park with Joao Neves and Orkun Kokcu.

The 24-year-old is said to have a £102million release clause, which the Toffees will certainly not be able to afford this summer and will be hoping that Benfica are open to a much lower fee. Despite being an extremely exciting midfielder outside of Europe’s top divisions, Luis has only made 17 league starts this season, which could lead to the player wanting to explore other options.

With the number of outgoings at Goodison Park this summer, Luis would likely become a mainstay in Dyche’s squad, especially with how defensive he is in front of the backline.

Of course, the current problems for the Toffees could be a determining factor in transfers this season, with some players likely to be put off by the PSR issues and takeover uncertainty.