Everton are not likely to sign Arthur Melo after backing away from the prospect, according to The Athletic.
The outlet reported on their website on 22 July that they had asked the Toffees about a deal for the Juventus man and the club had “distanced themselves” from it.
The Brazilian midfielder had a nightmare loan at Liverpool two seasons ago before bouncing back last term with Fiorentina but is “surplus to requirements” in Turin and expected to move.
Sean Dyche is thought to be prioritising a midfield replacement for Amadou Onana after the Belgian’s big-money Aston Villa move and a deal to sign Arthur was said to be straight forward and affordable [GiveMeSport, 16] but it looks like it won’t be taken up.
Everton back away from signing Arthur Melo from Juventus
Arthur clearly seems to be up for grabs if Everton want him and they can reportedly afford his salary easily [Calcio Mercato, 22 July] but it appears they are planning to go in a different direction.
Dyche is thought to be a big fan of unwanted Manchester City man Kalvin Phillips despite his nightmare West Ham loan and a deal could now be close there [TEAMtalk, 21 July].
The English international is probably more suited to the Toffees boss on paper but hasn’t shown top form for a long time.
