Fresh reports from Spanish outlet Fichrio indicate that Everton have gone all out to strengthen their defence. They submitted a formal €25 million offer for Real Betis centre-back Natan. The Premier League side approached the Heliopolis-based club. They hoped to capitalise on the defender’s recent shaky performance.

This follows a heavy defeat at the Santiago Bernabéu. Despite the tempting financial package, Real Betis sporting director Manu Fajardo immediately dismissed the proposal. This move shows that the Spanish club have no intention of selling their defensive asset.

Betis view the Brazilian as a crucial part of Manuel Pellegrini’s long-term plans. This remains true even though he had a tough night against Real Madrid, where concentration lapses proved costly.

The report confirms that the English club knocked on their door with plenty of cash. They sought to add some muscle to their backline. However, the Real Betis hierarchy refuses to panic simply because of one poor result against the European giants.

Fajardo and Pellegrini still have total faith in Natan’s potential. They blame the defensive errors in Madrid on the whole team losing focus, rather than Natan not being good enough. Consequently, the La Liga outfit have chosen stability over...