Everton in three-club tussle to sign Neal Maupay

Everton and Fulham are now in pursuit of Brighton and Hove Albion forward Neal Maupay, who looks set to leave the Amex this summer.

Maupay spent time at Nice and Saint-Etienne before moving to England in July 2017. Brentford paid Saint-Etienne £1.8million to sign the former France U21 international.

He went on to register 41 goals in 95 matches for the Bees, which saw Premier League clubs sit up and take notice.

Ultimately it was Brighton who won the race for his signature by parting with £16m to take him to the south coast.

Maupay has scored 27 goals in 109 outings for the Seagulls. This isn’t an eye-catching record and the Frenchman has often missed big chances for Brighton, along with several of his attacking team-mates.

Nevertheless, Maupay has shown he can compete in the top flight, while also causing opposition defenders problems with his pace and movement.

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Nottingham Forest are in talks with Brighton and Maupay’s entourage over a summer switch. And according to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth, these discussions are in an ‘advanced’ stage.

“Incredible, isn’t it? 15 signings through the door and they’re in advanced talks with Brighton over potential number 16 – this, the striker Neal Maupay,” he said, during an appearance on the Transfer Talk podcast.

“Fee under discussion thought to be £15m. Personal terms yet to be agreed.”