Everton are one of numerous clubs interested in former Liverpool defender Joel Matip, who is still without a club after leaving Anfield at the end of last season. The centre-back joined Liverpool as a free agent in 2016 and has been with the club during Jurgen Klopp’s tenure, winning every trophy available at Anfield. Matip was a fan favourite with the Reds, appearing 201 times and scored 11 goals while assisting six more. The defender would have made more appearances, but his tenure with the Premier League giants was marred by injuries, preventing him from realizing his full potential.
Matip, who left Liverpool at the end of last season, is now seeking for his next club, and sources tell CaughtOffside that Everton, Fulham, and Bayer Leverkusen are all interested in signing the 32-year-old. The player’s agents have previously met with all three clubs, and they now have complete information on the defender’s predicament. Everton’s interest is particularly intriguing given Matip’s recent history with Liverpool, and it would be interesting to watch whether the centre-back decides to continue his career on Merseyside.
Everton shows interest in former Liverpool standout Joel Matip.
Everton will make a move for Joel Matip if Michael Keane and Mason Holgate leave the Toffees in the coming weeks. Jarrad Branthwaite’s future at Goodison Park is also questionable, and Sean Dyche will not want to find himself short of central defenders. Fulham and Bayer Leverkusen are both vying for Matip’s signature. Fulham are bracing themselves for a defensive void if Tim Ream leaves Craven Cottage before the end of the summer transfer season. Matip’s experience and leadership abilities make him an ideal substitute if the 36-year-old leaves the London club.
Bayer Leverkusen, the most serious team in the race, is prioritising Matip’s departure at the request of their coach, Xabi Alonso. The Bundesliga giants want to finalize the deal for the former Liverpool player later this week, as the centre-back will be anxious to join a club with the season about to begin.
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