Crystal Palace step up interest in Everton’s Demarai Gray

Crystal Palace will step up their efforts to sign attacker Demarai Gray from Everton this summer, according to the Daily Mail.

The 27-year-old is reportedly unhappy with being a second-string option for Toffees boss Sean Dyche. The former Burnley manager preferred Dwight McNeil on the left wing and started McNeil for most of the second half of last season.

Frustrated by his fall down the pecking order, Gray wants to leave the club. Crystal Palace want him, and they will step up their interest.

Also, he has interest from the Saudi Pro League, where several clubs would like to acquire his services. 

Everton want around £12 million for Gray, whom they signed for £1.7 million from Bayer Leverkusen during Rafa Benitez’s tenure.

They want to reinforce their attack but will let Gray leave due to financial fair play (FFP) rules.

Everton have already sold Ellis Simms to Championship side Coventry City, where he will replace Viktor Gyokeres. Coventry paid £8 million for Simms.

Also, Everton have sold teenage left-back Ishe Samuels-Smith to Chelsea. He will join their youth ranks. They also want to sell Mason Holgate, and Southampton have shown interest in his services.

Everton don’t have much money to use for transfers, with Ashley Young being their only summer signing. They have also spoken with Villarreal’s Arnaut Danjuma, but nothing is close.

Gray netted six goals in 36 appearances for the Merseyside club as they narrowly escaped relegation again last season. 

At Palace, the Jamaican international will replace Wilfried Zaha, who has not decided on his future. Palace are still hoping the free agent will sign a deal with them.

Also, Palace are targeting a move for Flamengo’s Matheus Franca despite tightening their budget. They have enquired about signing him.

Franca and Gray could deputise for attacker Michael Olise. He will miss the early part of next season with a hamstring injury he suffered while on duty for France.