‘I’m told’: Everton have just emerged as a shock destination for £35m Tottenham Hotspur player
Everton are wasting no time getting down to business in the summer transfer window, with the club clearly intent on completing much of their squad overhaul early. Although the window has only been open for a few days, the Toffees are already working behind the scenes on several potential signings in what could be a transformative few months for the club.
Under the guidance of returning manager David Moyes, Everton’s recruitment drive appears to be gaining momentum. The former West Ham boss is actively assessing targets across multiple positions, keen to bolster his squad ahead of a crucial campaign. Among the players Moyes is reportedly monitoring is Manchester City’s James McAtee. The highly-rated youngster was recently omitted from Pep Guardiola’s Club World Cup squad, prompting speculation over his future—and Moyes has been quick to explore the possibility of bringing him to Goodison Park.
In the forward department, Moyes was keen on Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap. However, with the young forward now nearing a move to Chelsea, Everton have shifted their focus to alternative attacking options. One name that has caught Moyes’ attention is Serbian international Aleksandar Mitrovic, a proven Premier League goalscorer who could bring a much-needed physical presence to the frontline. Additionally, Stuttgart’s promising striker Nick Woltemade has also been linked with a move to Merseyside, while even Jack Grealish has been loosely associated with the club in recent weeks—though that remains a highly speculative proposition.
Now, a fresh name has emerged in the last 24 hours, and it’s one that could significantly bolster Everton’s midfield. Tottenham Hotspur’s Yves Bissouma is reportedly on the Toffees’ radar as they prepare for life without Orel Mangala and Abdoulaye Doucouré, both of whom are expected to depart this summer.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Bissouma is being closely monitored by Everton as they seek reinforcements in central midfield. The 28-year-old Mali international, who joined Spurs from Brighton & Hove Albion in the summer of 2022, is reportedly open to a move, as long as he remains in the Premier League.
Jacobs noted:
“So we may have to be a bit patient with the future of Bissouma, because I think the player will bide his time as well. He wants to stay in the Premier League. I’m told Leeds are another one to watch. They’re looking to add another midfielder. Even Everton, I’m told, could come into the mix as well, because they’re going to be losing a couple of midfielders and also looking to strengthen in that area too. So it wouldn’t surprise me if this one maybe drags on for a week or two more, but Villa could be one of the clubs to keep an eye on. And I just don’t see them doing anything before the financial year closes.”
With multiple clubs circling, including Aston Villa and newly-promoted Leeds United, Everton could face a competitive battle for Bissouma’s signature. However, their prospects may be boosted by the player’s contract situation. Bissouma is entering the final year of his current deal with Tottenham, which opens the door to a cut-price transfer. Spurs initially signed him for a fee of around £25 million, potentially rising to £35 million with add-ons, but given his contract status, Everton might be able to negotiate a deal in the region of £15 million.
That figure could represent excellent value for a player of Bissouma’s calibre and Premier League experience. Alternatively, Everton may even consider waiting until next summer when he would be available as a free agent, though that would carry the risk of losing out to a rival club.
In addition to Bissouma, Moyes is also believed to be tracking Rangers midfielder Mohamed Diomande, who enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season and has caught the eye with his energetic displays and creative flair.
All signs suggest Everton are laying the groundwork for a busy and ambitious summer window. With Moyes eager to reshape the squad in his image, supporters can expect more transfer developments in the coming days and weeks, particularly in midfield where reinforcements are urgently needed.
As competition for targets like Bissouma heats up, Everton will need to move smartly and decisively to secure their top priorities—before rivals beat them to the punch.