After Barry: Everton ‘Very Close’ to Agreement to Sign World Cup Winner
Everton on the Brink of Signing World Cup Winner Tagliafico on a Free Transfer
Everton are reportedly on the verge of securing the services of Argentine World Cup-winning defender Nicolás Tagliafico, with a deal said to be “very close” according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.net. The experienced left-back is a free agent after officially parting ways with Ligue 1 outfit Olympique Lyonnais earlier this week, making him an attractive proposition for clubs seeking a high-calibre addition to their backline without the burden of a transfer fee.
The Toffees are preparing for what promises to be a pivotal summer under new ownership, with The Friedkin Group now at the helm and manager David Moyes eager to reshape the squad. After years of flirting with relegation, Everton’s new leadership is determined to re-establish the club as a serious force in English football, with a clear aim to challenge for European places in the 2025/26 campaign.
Behind the scenes, club officials are working tirelessly to reinforce the squad across multiple areas, and bolstering the defence has become a particular priority. The addition of a seasoned international like Tagliafico is viewed as a major statement of intent. The 31-year-old, who played a key role in Argentina’s triumphant 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign, brings not just quality but a wealth of experience at both club and international level.
Tagliafico, who made 24 appearances for Lyon in all competitions last season, posted solid defensive metrics in Ligue 1, averaging 2.4 tackles, 1.5 interceptions, and 2 clearances per game. His disciplined and energetic style of play has made him a standout performer in top leagues, and he’s long been admired by clubs across Europe, including several in the Premier League.
With Ashley Young departing Goodison Park at the end of his contract, left-back has become a clear area in need of reinforcements. Vitalii Mykolenko is currently the first-choice option in that role, but Moyes is keen to bring in strong competition to raise standards and add depth. Tagliafico, with his attacking instinct, tenacious defending, and leadership skills, is viewed as an ideal fit for the high-intensity, balanced system the manager wants to implement.
The Argentine defender has reportedly received multiple offers from clubs across Europe, but Everton are said to be in pole position. Crucially, sources suggest that the player himself is enthusiastic about the opportunity to play in the Premier League — a competition he has long admired — and is open to making the switch to Merseyside.
If all goes according to plan, a deal could be wrapped up in the coming days, potentially making Tagliafico the latest addition in what is shaping up to be a proactive and ambitious transfer window for the Blues.
Everton have already made notable progress this summer. The permanent signing of Argentine midfielder Charly Alcaraz from Flamengo, following an impressive loan stint last season, has been confirmed. A move for Villarreal striker Thierno Barry is also believed to be close to completion, with an agreement reached with the Spanish club.
Defensively, the Toffees have also been shoring up their core by securing new contracts for key players. Centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite — subject of interest from several top clubs — has committed his future to the club, as has veteran Michael Keane. In midfield, Idrissa Gana Gueye is also expected to sign an extension, adding further stability and experience to the spine of the team.
With momentum building on and off the pitch, the signing of Nicolás Tagliafico could represent yet another positive step in Everton’s transformation — one that signals the dawn of a new, more ambitious era at Goodison Park.