Transfer Focus: Everton prepared to pay £17million for Croatian Goalkeeper

According to reports in his homeland, Croatian star Lovre Kalanic is attracting significant interest from Everton, who are expected to be on the prowl for a new first team goalkeeper this summer.

What’s the Word?

Sportske Novosti are claiming that Everton are prepared to offer €20million (£17.4million) for the Gent goalkeeper.

No more than 18 months ago, Aston Villa were reported to be interested in signing the giant Croatian, who was plying his trade with Hajduk Split at the time. However, this failed to transpire and the 6ft7” international moved to Belgium in January of this year.

Now, with Everton seemingly searching the market for a new number one, Kalinic is reportedly on their radar and would undoubtedly be interested in a move to the Premier League.

How good has Kalinic been this season?

In short – fantastic. In just four months at Gent, the 27-year-old made an incredible impression and helped the team to reach the Pro League play-offs. His contribution for just one half of the season saw him voted the Gent player of the year by fans.

The Croatian conceded less than one goal per game domestically and was a truly dominant ‘keeper, especially when it came to set pieces and crosses.

Would Kalinic be a good signing for Everton?

While Kalinic, who holds eight caps for Croatia, may not be the marquee signing that Evertonians hoped their new goalkeeper would be, the imposing stopper is experienced at both international and European level and still has his prime years ahead of him.

However, the Premier League is an unforgiving competition and there would undoubtedly be questions as to whether Kalinic is up to the exceptionally high standards of England’s top flight.