Everton are already in the market for new transfers after easily securing their Premier League status.
David Moyes is seeking upgrades to his defence, with Everton’s 2-2 draw with Ipswich Town exposing the frailties in their back line without James Tarkowski.
Everton could benefit from more physical dominance at the back, and with Tarkowski now 32, a long-term replacement could be sought out.
Red Star Belgrade sensation Veljko Milosavljević is now a target for Everton, and it is easy to see why Moyes is keen on the centre-back.
Everton closely following Milosavljević
Milosavljević has enjoyed a stunning breakthrough into the Red Star first team and has been scouted by clubs wanting to bring him to the Premier League.
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Serbian outlet Kurir (May 06) has now reported that Everton and Celtic are among the teams interested in the 17-year-old, who has been a revelation since coming into the Red Star team.
Milosavljević has already made 15 first-team appearances, and the centre-back has caught the eye in that time, with it claimed that he is the “real treasure” of Red Star right now.
StatMilosavljevićCards0
The report has pointed out that with Tarkowski and Michael Keane ageing, fresh blood is needed in the Everton back line, and Milosavljević would be a logical addition to help replace them.
Milosavljević could be an excellent long-term addition
Although he is still raw, it is easy to see why Everton are keen on signing Milosavljević now, with the defender capable of making his mark in the long run.
At 1.92 metres tall, he stands above Tarkowski in terms of height, and can offer more aerial dominance in the back line.
The report has also described him as “aggressive” in duels and he has also been praised for his ability on the ball, which sees him take initiative as the dominant centre-back.
At 17, there is plenty of room for the young defender to grow, and if he is to join this summer, he may be seen as a prospect for the future who can offer immediate depth to the defence.
Everton have tasted success with similar transfers, with Jarrad Branthwaite now tipped to reach the very top of world football after joining from Carlisle all those years ago.
Milosavljević can be moulded by Moyes throughout the coming seasons to eventually become a starter if he continues his fantastic start to his senior career, and Everton will only stand to benefit if an investment like this one pays off.