Everton will not face competition for Napoli midfielder Allan should they make their move for the Brazilian this summer.
The central midfielder is widely expected to leave the Serie A side after seeing his relationship deteriorate with them since a failed move to Paris Saint Germain last year.
They are now happy to sell him, particularly as he has struggled to establish himself in Gennaro Gattuso’s plans since he took over from Carlo Ancelotti at the club.
Everton have been consistently named as a potential destination, with reports first emerging in the January transfer window.
Ultimately a move never happened at that point, but it was made clear that Everton boss Ancelotti was a big fan of the 29-year-old after working with him in Naples.
All indications have been that they will revive their interest this summer, mainly as they are in desperate need of reinforcing the centre of their midfield.
Indeed, recent reports claimed that they would start the bidding at €30m, with it believed that Aurelio De Laurentiis is looking for at least €40m.
They have not been the only Premier League club linked, with Newcastle United also thought to be on his trail should their proposed takeover be completed.
According to Italian journalist Ciro Troise, though, that is not the case.
He recently made an appearance on Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli, relayed by Napoli Magazine, and while discussing various possible transfers revealed that “for Allan, I know there is only the interest of Ancelotti’s Everton.”
That would suggest talk of the likes of Newcastle being interested were wide of the mark, although perhaps their interest has now died down due to the fact their takeover looks likely to be blocked by the Premier League.
Either way, it appears to be good news for Everton, who may be given a free run on a player who is seemingly high up on their wishlist.
