Graziano Pelle is refusing to sign a new contract with Southampton, with Everton looking to step up on their interest in the Italian international, it has been claimed.

Pelle’s performances at Southampton paved his way into the Italian national team and he starred and scored in the Azzurri’s 2-0 win over Belgium last night.




However, it seem his future lies away from the south coast club as it has been claimed that he is refusing to extend his current contract, which expires at the end of next season.

And Everton, whose interest in the player was revealed by his agent a few days back, are looking to step up on their interest in the striker in the coming days in order to lure him to Goodison Park.
 


According to Tutto Mercato, the Toffees have been in contact with the player's representatives over the last few days and it has been suggested that they have proposed a lucrative contract for the forward to move to the north west of England.  

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Everton confirmed the appointment of Ronald Koeman earlier today as their manager and Pelle is believed to be one of the Dutchman’s top requests this summer to the Toffees hierarchy, as he looks to raid his former club Southampton.

Koeman managed Pelle at AZ Alkmaar and Feyenoord and he also brought the striker to Southampton when he took charge of the club in 2014.

And the Dutchman is keen to continue his partnership with Pelle at Goodison Park too.

Juventus are also interested in the striker, who scored 14 goals in 36 appearances for the Saints last season.