Mason Holgate reacts to talk of Man City summer switch

Everton defender Mason Holgate insists he is not concerning himself with transfer speculation following strong rumours of a summer switch to Manchester City.

Holgate has emerged as a reported transfer target for Pep Guardiola’s men after his improved form in central defence since the arrival of Carlo Ancelotti at Goodison Park.

The 23-year-old is also being tipped for an England call-up for this month’s international friendlies, with a view to making the final squad for Euro 2020.

City are expected to be in the market for a new central defender in the summer after failing to replace Vincent Kompany this season.

The club’s number one defender, Aymeric Laporte, has endured an injury-plagued campaign – leaving Nicolas Otamendi, John Stones and makeshift defender Fernandinho to fill in.

But despite the rumours, Holgate says he is simply focusing on getting Everton as high up the league as possible, after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Manchester United.

In response to a question about the transfer speculation, he said: “It’s not really what I think about my personal form, it is more about the team and where we are going as a team.

“I am glad we have started getting results. Last week (the 3-2 defeat at Arsenal) we were upset with our defensive play and the gaffer came out and said that.

“I am more than happy with how things went (against United). We looked quite solid as apart from the goal I think we defended quite well.”

Meanwhile, Everton scout Carlo Jacomuzzi has dropped a big hint over the club’s interest in Napoli winger Hirving Lozano.

Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti has been strongly linked with a move for the Mexico international, having previously coached the player in Naples before heading to Goodison Park.

However, Jacomuzzi’s comments on the Napoli winger’s situation are somewhat at odds with remarks he made last week, when he suggested that Lozano may not be a success in the Premier League. Read more…