This is an exclusive interview with journalist Ben Jacobs, speaking directly to EFC Daily regarding transfer news between Everton & Chelsea.
Levi Colwill latest
Levi Colwill has been reported recently as a transfer target for frank Lampard as he looks to bolster his defence this season, potentially as a part of a change in tactical approach. Ben Jacobs has said "Levi Colwill is waiting to see what defensive reinforcements Chelsea bring in so he knows his place in the hierarchy. He is not trying to force his way out of Chelsea. He simply wants clarity over his future. Everton, Southampton and Leicester are three clubs looking at Colwill. Frank Lampard is a big fan. But Chelsea prefer not to sanction anything until more defensive incomings arrive. Colwill to Everton is certainly possible before the window shuts, most likely on a loan. But Everton may have to be patient as Chelsea first assess Colwill's role at the club."
Conor Gallagher links
It's been widely regarded that Conor Gallagher is a target driven by manager Frank Lampard but his future at Chelsea looks to be secure for now and Jacobs states that "Conor Gallagher is currently seen as part of Chelsea's plans. He had a breakthrough loan spell with Crystal Palace, especially in the first half of last season. Thomas Tuchel sees him as part of his plans for this season. A permanent move away is very unlikely and Gallagher wants to stay at Stamford Bridge and both develop and fight for his place rather than be loaned out again."
Everton to move for Broja?
West Ham look to be ahead in the race for Albanian striker Armando Broja as he searches for a regular game time and Ben Jacobs expresses that “Chelsea don't want to sell Armando Broja, but may have to do so, reluctantly, if the player himself continues to push for a move. Everton's interest in Broja is genuine but West Ham are far more advanced and in direct talks with Chelsea about a £30 million move. Tuchel will talk with Broja and see whether he can persuade the Albanian to stay. But West Ham are pushing hard and it's a key week of talks ahead. Chelsea would ideally like to keep Broja but he still needs some convincing if he's to remain at Stamford Bridge or agree to another loan. Broja ultimately wants game time and believes he did enough at Southampton last season to get it in the Premier League." If things go wrong in the negotiations with West Ham then Everton may look to capitalise on Chelsea's desire to send him on loan rather than sanction a permanent transfer away.
Billy Gilmour discussed
Everton have been linked with Chelsea youngster Billy Gilmour this summer as Thomas Tuchel looks set to allow him to leave the club after being dismissed from their USA pre-season tour, Ben Jacobs says "there is substance to links between Everton and Billy Gilmour. A loan-move has been discussed. Gilmour was cut from Chelsea's US pre-season tour and is currently surplus to requirements. Rangers are also interested. Gilmour had a difficult loan spell at Norwich last season and is likely to be loaned out once more."
Ross Barkley offered
There seems to be substance in the report that ex-toffees midfielder Ross Barkley has been touted to Everton as Jacobs states "Ross Barkley is available, and Frank Lampard believes he still has huge potential. Barkley is only 28 and hoping to find a club that plays to his strengths. During his first Everton spell he contributed with far more goals than at Chelsea, where his game-time has been limited for the past few seasons. Everton and Aston Villa have both been offered Barkley. The reason for this is Chelsea want to get Barkley off the wage bill."