Everton target Duvan Zapata 'would be a really good fit' at Goodison Park, but the Toffees are struggling to negotiate a loan deal with Atalanta, transfer insider Dean Jones has told GiveMeSport.

Frank Lampard, who is hopeful of finalising a temporary deal for Villarreal's Arnaut Danjuma, is looking to improve his side's hopes of avoiding the drop by bolstering the squad ahead of the January window slamming shut.

GiveMeSport Transfer Update With Dean Jones

Everton transfer news - Duvan Zapata

According to MailOnline, Everton have enquired about Zapata's availability ahead of the fast-approaching transfer deadline.

The report suggests the striker is valued at £25million by Serie A side Atalanta, while West Ham United and Nottingham Forest are providing stiff competition for his signature.

It is understood that Everton are looking to negotiate an initial loan deal which would involve an option to buy, but Zapata's current employers are only open to discussing a permanent switch.

Respected journalist Fabrizio Romano recently told GiveMeSport that the Toffees will hold further discussions with Atalanta as they look to reach an agreement.

Zapata has entered the final 18 months of his £57,000-per-week contract, meaning this month is an ideal time for the Italian side to cash-in.

What has Dean Jones said about Zapata?

Jones believes Zapata would be an astute signing by Everton as he would seamlessly fit into the squad as they look to drag their way out of a relegation dogfight.

But the journalist has warned it will be difficult for the Merseyside outfit to get a deal over the line because Atalanta are holding firm on their demands for the 31-year-old.

Amid the continued pursuit of Danjuma, Jones told GiveMeSport: "I think that Zapata would be a really good fit for Everton.

"But, at the moment, it sounds like they want a permanent deal and Everton would really be looking for an initial loan at the very least, so it's really tough for them to negotiate at the moment."

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

What would Zapata add to Everton's squad?

Zapata has got his name on the scoresheet 154 times over the course of his club career, according to Transfermarkt, so it is abundantly clear that he would make Everton more of a threat in the final third of the pitch.

The Toffees are crying out for a proven goalscorer, with Wolverhampton Wanderers being the only side to have found the back of the net less frequently in the Premier League this season.

Zapata may not have been at his best this term, having only been on target once, but a hamstring injury suffered in September has caused havoc.

The Colombia international is capable of causing defenders problems with his presence as WhoScored statistics show he wins 1.8 aerial battles, on average, every Serie A outing.

Zapata, who has clinched silverware in his homeland and Italy, would be a potentially game-changing signing for Everton.

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