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Everton target Welbeck and Eto'o

ESPN staff
August 25, 2014
Danny Welbeck has fallen out of favour at Manchester United under Louis van Gaal © Getty Images
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Everton manager Roberto Martinez will consider a late move for either Samuel Eto'o or Danny Welbeck if a deal can be done within his budget.

Martinez is weighing up whether to add a forward to his squad ahead of next Monday's transfer deadline in order to cope with a lengthening injury list.

Romelu Lukaku limped off during the second half of Saturday's 2-2 Premier League draw with Arsenal, while fellow striker Arouna Kone does not yet have a return date despite returning to training after 10 months out with a knee injury.

In addition, attacking midfielder Ross Barkley - another source of goals - will be out until at least October after sustaining medial knee ligament damage in training on August 15.

Martinez has acknowledged an interest in Cameroon international Eto'o, 33, who is a free agent after being released by Chelsea at the end of last season. Liverpool are also believed to be monitoring his situation, with any move closely linked to the outcome of their negotiations for Mario Balotelli.

England striker Welbeck, 23, is another option, having been told by Manchester United that he can leave for a fee.

Martinez told the Times: "There is a lot of money involved in those two. At the moment, I am looking at all the options.

"While the window is open, we are looking at anyone who can help us and also looking at our injured players and seeing how they react."

Martinez added that Eto'o's age would not necessarily be a barrier to a deal. "It would not put me off because every player can contribute in a different way," he said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
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