Sources: Expected winner named in Everton and Fulham race to sign Luiz Henrique

According to sources that spoke to Football Insider, Botafogo of Brazil is expected to capture Real Betis star Luiz Henrique, surpassing Everton and Fulham of the Premier League. The 23-year-old is well-regarded in Spain and has made an impact for Betis, sparking attention from teams in England.

However, Botafogo is currently putting themselves ahead of Fulham and Everton and is expected to finalize a deal for Henrique. This month, as they sought to strengthen their respective offenses, both English teams have expressed interest in the Brazilian.

A well-placed source has told Football Insiderthat Henrique is likely to join Botafago on a permanent deal before heading on loan to Ligue 1 side Lyon. Both clubs, as well as Crystal Palace, are owned by American billionaire John Textor.

Henrique has managed one goal and three assists in 20 appearances across all competitions for Betis this term. The winger only joined the Spanish side from boyhood club Fluminense in 2022 but is set to return to Brazil before next week’s transfer deadline (1 February).

During his tenure in Brazil and Spain, he has made 160 senior professional games and scored 17 goals. Everton is eager to bolster their striking lineup in order to fend off the possibility of relegation after losing 10 points earlier in the campaign.

After winning just one of their previous five league games, Sean Dyche’s team is currently just one point above the bottom three. Fulham, meanwhile, is in 13th place and has accumulated an eight-point lead above the relegation zone.

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