Everton Receive Major Transfer Boost After £25m Target Dropped From Squad, Cenk Tosun Could Still Make Debut Against Liverpool

Turkey internationals striker Cenk Tosun is nearing a move to Everton after being omitted from the Besiktas squad for their mid-season training camp.

A source close to Besiktas has revealed to Turkish-Football.com that the star striker will not be joining the rest of the squad as he is on the verge of a £25m move to Everton.

Per the source, Tosun – who is currently in England –  has agreed personal terms with Everton.

Meanwhile, Besiktas president Fikret Orman has confirmed Everton’s bid: “Everton have made an offer for Cenk, reports that we increased his price are false, our vice-president Ahmet Nur Cebi has been leading negotiations,” Orman said.

Cenk attracted the attention of clubs across Europe following his impressive run of form in the UEFA Champions League.

The 26-year-old netted four goals and provided two assists in six Group Stage games for the Black Eagles. Cenk has also scored eight league goals taking his tally for the season up to 14.

Everton have scored the second lowest amount of goals in the top-10 of the Premier League and are looking to bolster their frontline in January.

Toffees boss Sam Allardyce recently reaffirmed his desire to sign a new goalscorer this month.

“Our attacking powers are limited – that’s why I’ve worked so hard on keeping clean sheets,” Allardyce told reporters.

“We need to strengthen the front line. We’re trying to do the hardest job of all by securing a player in that position.”

Cenk could end up making his debut in the Merseyside derby against Liverpool on Friday.