Everton are showing an interest in a late deadline day move for Reading striker Lucas Joao, a report from The Daily Mail's Transfer Blog (31/01, 15:16) has claimed.

The Toffees have seemingly been in the market for a striker this month to address their lack of firepower, but are so far yet to make a signing of any kind, since the window opened at the turn of the year.

Now however, it seems the Merseyside club could be set to turn their attention to Reading, as they look to change that in the final hours of the market.

According to this latest update, Everton are taking an interest in a deal to bring Joao to Goodison Park, in an attempt to boost their strike force.

Joao joined Reading from Sheffield Wednesday back in the summer of 2019, and has since gone on to make 107 appearances in all competitions for the Royals, scoring 43 goals.

As things stand, the striker's contract with Reading is set to expire in the summer, meaning this could be the Championship club's last chance to receive a fee for him.

The Verdict

This feels like a rather interesting one to consider from an Everton point of view.

There can be no denying they need to add to what has been a low-scoring attack this season, and Joao's physical presence means he ought to fit in well with a Sean Dyche team.

However, the fact that Joao is relatively untested at the sort of level Everton will need him for over the next few months, does make this something of a risk for the Toffees, as they look to avoid relegation.

Indeed, the fact he has scored just five goals in 22 Championship games for Reading this season may be a concern, although given Everton badly need some extra firepower, this may be a chance they have to take.