Everton step up interest in Fernandez as he looks forward to his debut against Iran tomorrow

ENGLISH Premier League giants Everton have become the latest side to express an interest in Nigerian centreback Emmanuel Fernandez currently setting Scotland alight with his scintillating performances at Glasgow Rangers.

Fernandez, 24,  joined Rangers from Peterborough United during the summer transfer window in a deal reportedly worth around £3m. Peterborough's director of football Barry Fry believes Rangers could command a transfer fee of at least £30m for the defender following his impressive start to life at Ibrox.

Currently in the Super Eagles camp as Nigeria prepares for matches against Iran and Jordan tomorrow and on Tuesday at a friendly tournament in Turkey, Fernandez is seen as the next big thing. He is expected to follow in the footsteps of compatriot and former Glasgow Rangers defender Calvin Bassey, who has gone on to establish himself as the lynchpin of the Super Eagles defence.

Since joining Rangers, Fernandez quickly established himself as a key figure for the club, winning over supporters with his solid defensive displays, aerial dominance and composure on the ball. He has also contributed offensively, scoring five goals in 21 league appearances to underline his growing influence in the team.

As a result several of Europe’s top clubs have begun watching him and apparently, Rangers are open to selling the defender but will demand around €40m from suitors. Apart from Everton, Chelsea and Arsenal are reportedly interested in the player, while Bundesliga clubs Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen are also rumoured to be monitoring him too.

With Bassey dropping out of the current friendly tournament through injury, there is a likelihood that Fernandez may bet to play. If he plays well, this will enhance his reputation and increase his value.

After missing out on the World Cup inter-continental play-offs, Nigeria has been invited to participate in a four-nation invitational tournament taking place between March 27 and 31. This tournament, involving the national teams of Jordan, Iran and Costa Rica, is taking place in the Turkish city of Antalya, having been moved from the Jordanian capital Amman, due to the Middle East crisis.