Everton Given Major Boost in Pursuit of Highly-Rated Midfielder Following Leeds United Setback
Everton’s plans to bolster their midfield this summer have just received a significant lift, following an unexpected twist in Leeds United’s pursuit of highly-rated Strasbourg star Habib Diarra. With several midfielders expected to leave Goodison Park and the future of veteran Idrissa Gana Gueye still uncertain, the Toffees are actively searching for new recruits — and Diarra is now emerging as a genuine target.
This development comes at a critical moment for Everton, who are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2025–26 Premier League campaign. Having already confirmed the permanent signing of Carlos Alcaraz from Flamengo, the club is continuing to work under the guidance of David Moyes, who is determined to reshape the midfield core before the new season kicks off.
Leeds Blow Opens the Door for Everton
In what could be a pivotal twist in the transfer race, journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that Leeds United are facing serious difficulties in their pursuit of Diarra. Despite tabling a bid to Strasbourg last week, negotiations have stalled due to complications on the player’s side. While Leeds remain interested, a move to Elland Road is now described as “unlikely.”
This stumbling block presents a timely opportunity for Everton. With fewer obstacles in their path, the Merseyside club may now hold a stronger position in the battle for Diarra’s signature. The Senegal international had drawn attention from a number of clubs across Europe, but the latest update hands Everton a valuable advantage.
Everton’s Midfield Situation: A Turning Point
The need for midfield reinforcements at Goodison Park is growing more urgent by the day. Several players are expected to depart at the end of June when their contracts expire, and Gueye — a key figure in recent seasons — has yet to make a decision on a new deal despite an offer remaining on the table. If the 34-year-old opts to leave, the midfield ranks will be left significantly depleted, further heightening the urgency for reinforcements.
With this in mind, Moyes and his recruitment staff have prioritized adding energetic, progressive players in the centre of the park — and Habib Diarra, at just 20 years old, fits that profile perfectly. Known for his ball-winning ability, tactical intelligence, and drive from midfield, Diarra has impressed for Strasbourg and is widely regarded as one of Ligue 1’s top young midfield prospects.
A Message from Gueye and Strategic Timing
Interestingly, Idrissa Gana Gueye has reportedly issued a message of encouragement to Diarra, amid growing speculation linking him with a move to Everton. While not a confirmation of any imminent deal, it does suggest a level of mutual respect and perhaps a quiet nudge to join the Senegalese contingent on Merseyside.
Adding to Everton’s appeal is the club’s highly anticipated move to a brand-new stadium, which is expected to significantly enhance their profile both domestically and in Europe. The club’s executives are hopeful that this project — combined with the chance to play under an experienced manager like Moyes — will help lure ambitious talents such as Diarra, who is believed to have had reservations about joining certain other clubs.
Strasbourg Open to Sale – Everton Must Act
Crucially, Strasbourg’s president has publicly confirmed that Diarra will be sold this summer, as long as a suitable offer is made. That opens the door for Everton to submit a formal proposal and take full advantage of the situation. With Leeds’ progress hindered and no other front-runner in clear sight, Everton must now act decisively if they are serious about securing the midfielder.
Given the intense competition for top young talent across Europe, moments like this are rare. The Toffees must now move swiftly and strategically to ensure they do not miss out on a player who could become a core part of their midfield for years to come.
Conclusion: Everton Presented With a Golden Chance
In summary, Everton have been handed a golden opportunity to secure the services of a young, dynamic midfielder in Habib Diarra — a player who is not only attainable, but seemingly more inclined toward a move away from Elland Road. With their midfield department in need of urgent reinforcement and Gueye’s future hanging in the balance, this is a transfer the club cannot afford to let slip through their fingers.
The ball is firmly in Everton’s court — now it’s time to make their move.