Inter Milan still have a Joao Mario shaped problem.
The Portuguese midfielder spent the second half of last season on loan at West Ham, and in Italy it had been hoped, and at times expected, that the Hammers would sign the player permanently.
There were many weeks of rumours on that track and then other clubs were brought in. Wolves have had their shares of stories, which seem to be based on agent connections, but the most concrete track has seemed to be Real Betis.
Everton have now been dragged into the picture.
Saturday’s edition of Tuttosport say Inter hope a ‘credible buyer’ can be found between Betis and Everton. Interest from the Toffees has been tentative, with it being claimed an intermediary has already tested the ground on behalf of the club.
Assuming Everton actually know about this, and it’s not an agent trying to build a deal without a mandate, then it’s obviously good news for Inter.
The issue still remains how Joao Mario would leave, not just the destination. Inter would prefer a straight transfer or a loan with a compulsory purchase option, whereas those interested would prefer a loan with a buying option.Everton would surely go for the latter as a preference.
