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Is Everton looking at Cyle Larin to replace Romelu Lukaku?

By Dan Cunningham

Mar 18, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando City SC forward Cyle Larin (9) dribbles before scoring a goal against Philadelphia Union during the second half at Orlando City Stadium. Orlando City SC defeated Philadelphia Union 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Matt Stamey-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 18, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando City SC forward Cyle Larin (9) dribbles before scoring a goal against Philadelphia Union during the second half at Orlando City Stadium. Orlando City SC defeated Philadelphia Union 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Matt Stamey-USA TODAY Sports /
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With reports suggesting Everton are considering a move for Orlando City’s Cyle Larin as a replacement for Romelu Lukaku, just how true are they?

Lukaku’s desire to leave Goodison Park has not been kept secret, with the striker publicly stating his future lies elsewhere. Given that move is likely to take place this summer, Everton are in the process of devising a shortlist of those capable of taking his place.

What is it about Cyle Larin?

Larin came to the attention of soccer fans as the #1 pick in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft, being selected by Orlando with an impressive 17 goals in 30 games behind him at college level.

Since arriving in MLS, he has lived up to his billing. He has netted 35 times in just 63 outings, and on his way to breaking the record for most goals by a rookie in a single season – 17 in 27 games – collected MLS Rookie of the Year honors.

Still only 21, Larin is also a bona fide international for the Canadian national team since first being called up as an 18 year old, and now with five goals in 19 to his name.

Sep 6, 2016; Vancouver, Canada; Canada player Cyle Larin (21) dribbles the ball against El Salvador during the first half at B.C. Place Stadium. Team Canada won 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 6, 2016; Vancouver, Canada; Canada player Cyle Larin (21) dribbles the ball against El Salvador during the first half at B.C. Place Stadium. Team Canada won 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports /

There are no shortage of admirers.

These are the sort of stats which get a player recognized.

He followed up his Rookie of the Year season with 14 goals last year and made the MLS All Stars squad to face Arsenal.

With all three of Orlando City’s goals in their first two 2017 games scored by Larin, he is firmly on Everton’s radar. While it was muted, Celtic have been interested, as are Besiktas, Anderlecht and Sporting Lisbon across Europe, with Brighton and Hove Albion and Nottingham Forest shown interest from the Championship.

But is he good enough?

Lukaku is a special player. As one of only five players to score 50 Premier League goals before his 23rd birthday, he is well on his way to becoming one of a kind.

So to be touted as his replacement is somewhat rich. But there is no doubting Larin is one of the top young stars in MLS, and someone with massive potential, and it will be good to see that potential tested.

Next: Columbus Crew vs. Orlando City: Preview and How to Watch

But for now, his Orlando City coach, Jason Kreis, summed it up best, commenting,

"“For Cyle, I would say it’s a good thing. He is playing well, he’s been noticed for it, and people are paying attention. I think that is a great thing, not just for Cyle but for everyone involved with MLS.”"

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