By Noel Whelan

3rd Feb, 2023 | 2:45pm

Pundit can't believe Everton could seal out-of-window Isco deal as approach made

Noel Whelan has claimed a potential Everton move for former Real Madrid midfielder Isco would be “desperate”.

The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 30-year-old is a “luxury player” – with new boss Sean Dyche in need of “fighters”.

According to 90min (2 February), Everton have been “offered” Isco’s services after his move to Bundesliga title challengers Union Berlin fell through last month.

The report claims the Spain international has other offers from clubs in Japan, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.

Isco, who has registered one goal and three assists this season, last played for Sevilla on 9 November before his release on 21 December.

When quizzed on a potential move for the midfielder, Dyche told reporters (as quoted by the Daily Express, 2 February) that a potential signing would have to “fit” into his philosophy and “affect things now”.

Everton sit 19th in the Premier League but failed to make a single January addition – despite losing Anthony Gordon to Newcastle for a reported £45million.

Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’s a quality player but if he’s not in the right shape, what will he contribute?

“It seems like a desperate move. Is he the character you need in a dogfight? In my opinion, probably not.

“He’s a luxury player. He’s a big name, but his appearances have been very sporadic.

“This, to me, wouldn’t be a positive signing. Everton are just looking for someone who could bring a glimpse of quality to the table.

“Sean Dyche needs fighters right now, and players who can dig in. I don’t think he’d be that type of player.”

In other news, pundit verdict on Everton sacking Sean Dyche this summer – “it’s a worry”.