Everton ‘interested’ in Brazil international after Aston Villa have bid rejected
Everton Owners The Friedkin Group Plot Major Transfer Swoop for Brazil International Wesley Franca
Everton’s ambitious owners, The Friedkin Group, are reportedly moving forward with a high-profile transfer that could see them secure the services of promising Brazilian right-back Wesley Franca. According to reports from reputable Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, the Toffees are in advanced discussions over a deal with Flamengo that would be worth around £25 million.
However, this potential signing may not immediately benefit Everton on the pitch. In a strategic move that highlights the ownership group’s multi-club model, the plan is for Wesley to be temporarily loaned out to AS Roma—another team under The Friedkin Group’s umbrella—for the 2025–26 campaign. Sources claim that both clubs are operating in close “synergy” to finalise a deal that suits all parties, suggesting a growing collaboration between Everton and Roma under their shared leadership.
Wesley Franca has established himself as a key player for Flamengo since joining the senior team in 2021. The 21-year-old has racked up an impressive 133 appearances for the Brazilian giants, notching three goals and five assists from his right-back position. His consistently solid performances in domestic and continental competitions recently earned him a call-up to the Brazilian national team, where he featured in World Cup qualifying matches against Colombia and Argentina earlier this year—cementing his status as one of the country’s brightest defensive prospects.
Last season, Wesley shared the pitch with Charly Alcaraz, who initially arrived at Everton on loan from Flamengo in January before making his move to Merseyside permanent in the summer. The existing connection between the clubs appears to have paved the way for further cooperation in the transfer market.
Wesley’s talents have not gone unnoticed elsewhere. Several major European clubs have been monitoring his development, including Premier League rivals. Liverpool were previously linked with the player before opting to sign Jeremie Frimpong as a long-term successor to Trent Alexander-Arnold. Manchester City have also reportedly shown interest, while Brighton & Hove Albion were said to have submitted a £20 million bid last month, according to The Telegraph. Additionally, Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte reported that Aston Villa had a £13 million offer rejected, suggesting there is significant competition for the young defender’s signature.
Despite the buzz surrounding Wesley, Everton’s need for a new right-back remains immediate. The club had targeted Fulham’s Kenny Tete earlier in the summer, but the 29-year-old ultimately chose to sign a new contract with the Cottagers, leaving Everton still in search of reinforcements in that position. Should the Wesley deal go through and he is sent to Roma, the club is likely to continue searching for another right-back option to support their squad this season.
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Everton Closing in on Villarreal Striker Thierno Barry Amid Forward Reinforcements
In addition to defensive reinforcements, Everton are reportedly nearing a deal to bolster their attacking ranks with the signing of Thierno Barry from Villarreal. With the departure of Dominic Calvert-Lewin following the expiration of his contract, and the decision not to pursue a permanent deal for Armando Broja after an underwhelming and injury-hit loan stint, manager Sean Dyche is eager to add firepower to his squad.
Barry, who had a breakout season in La Liga last term, found the back of the net 11 times and provided four assists, helping Villarreal secure a fifth-place finish and a return to the UEFA Champions League. His pace, physical presence, and ability to lead the line have made him one of the most exciting young strikers in Spain. The 22-year-old also featured for France’s Under-21 team in this summer’s UEFA European U21 Championship, playing a key role as Les Bleus advanced to the semi-finals.
Although Barry is protected by a £33 million release clause, Everton are currently negotiating with Villarreal in hopes of securing the player for a lower fee. Talks are believed to be progressing well, and a deal could be struck in the coming days as Everton look to reshape their attack for the upcoming Premier League campaign.
Should both Wesley and Barry arrive at Goodison Park this summer—albeit with Wesley possibly going out on loan—it would mark a significant show of intent by The Friedkin Group. Their vision for the club appears to include aggressive recruitment, strategic partnerships across their football portfolio, and a renewed focus on both youth development and long-term planning.
As the summer transfer window continues to unfold, Everton fans will be eager to see whether these bold moves can help restore the club’s fortunes and push the Toffees back into European contention.