Everton are 'exploring' a late attempt to kidnap West HamPSG have decided to sign Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Carlos Soler before the deadline, according to Florian Plettenberg.
The Spain international is reportedly out of Luis Enrique's plans this season, prompting interest from other clubs including West Ham, who have been heavily linked with the midfielder in recent weeks.
L'Equipe reported The Hammers were recently reported to be 'close' to a deal to sign Soler following positive talks between the two clubs last week.
However, it appears Everton are attempting to hijack West Ham's bid. Plettenberg claims the Toffees have made contact with PSG to discuss the possibility of bringing the midfielder to Goodison Park.
The German transfer Guru adds that West Ham still retain a strong interest in the 27-year-old and are planning the “next steps” to seal a transfer for the former Valencia midfielder before the transfer deadline.
With a contract at the Parc des Princes that runs until 2027, PSG are looking to sell Soler this month and will reject any loan offer for the midfield gem, according to Plettenberg.
Soler would be a key addition to Sean Dyche's midfield, but overcoming a West Ham side who are spending big on the midfielder will be difficult. Soler is valued at €20m (£16m) Transfer market So both clubs should be able to afford PSG's asking price.
Everton planning Soler's kidnapping
Everton made the worst possible start to a season, losing their third consecutive opening game with a 3-0 home defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion last Saturday.
Brighton dominated their midfield for much of the match, dominated by an energetic team. Everton need a quality midfielder to improve their squad and signing Soler would be a great coup.
West Ham, on the other hand, are the Premier LeagueThe most active team in the transfer window, having completed eight transfers so far this summer.
They appear to be ahead in the race for Soler after being linked with the Spaniard for much of the summer, but Everton could scupper their plans with a kidnapping.
Although the Toffees have already signed Tim Ireogbunam and Jesper Lindstrøm to bolster their midfield, adding a top-class midfielder like Soler would undoubtedly boost the form of the team, who are hoping to avoid relegation this season.
Everton will be looking for their first away win against Tottenham Hotspur from 2020 when they travel to north London to face Spurs on Saturday 24 August.
