Everton and Crystal Palace have joined Benfica in the race to sign one of the hottest prospects in African football according to reports in the French press.
Both the Toffees and Palace will be seeking additional reinforcements this summer, with the Eagles especially keen for extra resources, given their upcoming Europa League campaign next season.
Everton lost Jack Grealish to injury mid-season and there are no guarantees the former England international will return to the Hill Dickinson Stadium next campaign. David Moyes' men struggled for goals last season, and forward additions are sure to be on the mind this summer.
Crystal Palace meanwhile were the third lowest goalscorers in the Premier League last season; Jean-Philippe Mateta and Jorgen Strand Larsen represent good striking options, but supply from the flanks may also be on the recruitment menu at Selhurst Park.
Everton and Crystal Palace enquire about Watford winger Othmane Maamma
Championship outfit Watford look set to lose one of their best young prospects this transfer window, with L’Équipe reporting that Everton, Crystal Palace and Benfica are all interested in signing Moroccan winger Othmane Maamma.
Maamma can operate from both the left and right flank and has emerged as a first team player at Vicarage Road in recent months, scoring four goals in 25 games during a breakout campaign in the second tier.
The 20-year-old also displayed his significant potential at the U20 World Cup last year, where he played a starring role during Morocco's win at the tournament, being named Player of the Tournament and Golden Ball winner.
Watford are unlikely to sell Maamma on the cheap, however, especially with three years remaining on his current deal. Any sale would likely represent a healthy profit for the Hornets, who signed the youngster for less than £1m from Montpellier.
