Everton have emerged as surprise contenders in the race to sign Carlos Soler from Paris Saint-Germain, as they look to derail West Ham United’s attempts to bring the Spanish midfielder to London. The Toffees, who have been tracking Soler for some time, are now actively working to secure his signature before the transfer deadline.

🚨🔵 Excl | Everton, also exploring deal to sign Carlos #Soler!

27 y/o has been on their list for a long time. Interest is concrete. And Everton have also made contact with Paris Saint-Germain. #EFC

⚠️ But: West Ham still there and planning the next steps as #WHUFC want to… pic.twitter.com/4a2VUnudzp

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) August 22, 2024

Florian Plettenberg reports that Everton have made concrete inquiries to PSG regarding the availability of Soler, expressing a strong desire to bring the versatile midfielder to Goodison Park. The 27-year-old has been on Everton’s radar, and the club’s renewed interest suggests that they are keen to add quality and depth to their midfield. Everton’s push for Soler comes as the player’s prospects at PSG have dimmed following the arrival of Joao Neves from Benfica. The Spanish international has struggled to secure regular first-team football under the management of Luis Enrique, who has previously coached him with the Spanish national team. With PSG open to selling Soler outright, Everton are looking to take advantage of the situation.

West Ham United, meanwhile, have been one of the most active clubs in the Premier League this summer, adding several key players to their squad. However, their pursuit of Carlos Soler has hit a snag with Everton’s late interest. The Hammers had reportedly been in advanced talks with PSG, with the French champions willing to part ways with Soler for a fee in the region of £17 million.

Carlos Soler, who began his professional career at Valencia, has long been admired for his versatility on the pitch. Starting as a striker before transitioning into an attacking midfielder and then a central midfielder, Soler has proven himself as a dependable and adaptable player. His contributions at Valencia, including helping the team win the Copa del Rey in 2019, earned him a move to PSG in 2022 for an €18 million fee.

If Everton manage to secure Soler’s signature, it would represent a significant coup for the Merseyside club. The Spanish midfielder would bring much-needed creativity, vision, and ball retention skills to a side that has struggled in recent seasons. With Soler’s ability to play in multiple positions, he would provide manager Sean Dyche with valuable options as Everton look to avoid a relegation battle this season

Everton’s potential acquisition of Carlos Soler comes amid significant off-field developments, as American billionaire John Textor is reportedly close to finalizing a takeover of the club. Textor, whose Eagle Football Group has stakes in several clubs, including Lyon and Crystal Palace, is in advanced talks with Everton’s owner, Farhad Moshiri, to purchase a majority stake. The takeover, expected to be completed soon, could inject much-needed funds into the club and pave the way for further signings. The added financial muscle might be just what Everton need to outbid West Ham and secure Soler’s services, marking the beginning of a new era at Goodison Park.