Moyes’ best CM since Fellaini: Everton submit enquiry to sign £43m star

Everton Fans Buzzing Ahead of New Season with Transfers and Midfield Targets on the Horizon

Excitement is steadily building among Everton supporters as preparations for the new Premier League season begin to take shape. The recent developments on and off the pitch have created an air of optimism around Goodison Park, particularly with some high-profile player movements and the return of a familiar face in the dugout.

One of the biggest morale-boosters so far has been the long-term commitment of star defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who recently signed a new five-year contract. The young centre-back was a standout performer last season, and his decision to stay is a massive boost for Evertonians who are craving consistency and ambition heading into a new era.

Meanwhile, Everton are closing in on a major addition up front, as reports widely confirm that striker Thierno Barry arrived on Merseyside on Tuesday to finalise a £32.5 million transfer from Villarreal. The deal is expected to be confirmed shortly and would signal a clear statement of intent as the Toffees look to reinforce their attack with youthful flair and firepower.

But the transfer activity may not stop there. Manager David Moyes, in his second spell in charge, is believed to be exploring ways to strengthen his midfield as well—potentially bringing in a player of genuine top-flight pedigree.

Everton Eyeing Midfield Reinforcements

The club’s imminent move into the long-awaited Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium is symbolic of a fresh start, and the momentum is being driven by the return of David Moyes. Since his reappointment in January, Everton have shown significant improvement in their league form—winning eight of their last 19 Premier League fixtures, including each of their final three games last season.

Moyes, who previously managed the club from 2002 to 2013, left a lasting legacy in his first spell at Goodison Park. During those years, he consistently guided Everton to strong Premier League finishes and even secured Champions League qualification in the 2004/05 season. His teams were known for being well-drilled, hardworking, and frequently overachieving.

A quick look at Moyes’ first tenure highlights the calibre of squad he once oversaw:

Season PL Finish Points Notable Achievement

2004/05 4th 61 UCL Qualification
2007/08 5th 65 League Cup Semi-final
2008/09 5th 63 FA Cup Finalists
2012/13 6th 63 FA Cup Semi-finalists

During that era, one of the most influential players under Moyes was Marouane Fellaini, a physically dominant and technically underrated midfielder who often dictated games and offered a unique attacking threat.

Now, Moyes may be on the verge of acquiring a midfielder who could rival Fellaini’s importance to the team—though in a very different mould.

Douglas Luiz on Everton’s Radar

According to TEAMtalk, Everton have formally expressed interest in signing Douglas Luiz from Juventus, where the Brazilian has endured a frustrating spell since his move from Aston Villa just a year ago. Juventus are reportedly prepared to offload the 26-year-old for half of the £43 million they paid in 2024, with Manchester United and Fulham also circling.

Luiz, who was once hailed as one of the Premier League’s standout holding midfielders, has seen his stock fall after a disappointing stint in Turin. Juventus legend Alessio Tacchinardi recently labelled Luiz’s transfer as a “disaster”, pointing to the midfielder’s meagre 877 minutes of game time in Serie A last season, across just nine starts.

However, his performances prior to the move tell a very different story. Luiz was a pivotal figure in Aston Villa’s midfield under Unai Emery, with his consistency, passing range, and ability to win the ball back earning widespread praise.

Premier League stats from his final season at Villa (2023/24) paint a clear picture:

Statistic Luiz Total PL Rank

Minutes Played 2,993 41st
Goals Scored 9 31st
Completed Passes 1,800 23rd
Key Passes 53 29th
Progressive Passes 168 26th
Crosses 115 21st
Tackles 58 55th
Ball Recoveries 184 27th
Fouls Committed 51 10th

(Stats via FBref)

These numbers highlight Luiz’s dual capabilities—offering both offensive distribution and defensive solidity. His blend of technical skill and work rate prompted former England international Owen Hargreaves to label him an “elite defensive midfielder.”

For Everton, whose current midfield options include Idrissa Gana Gueye, James Garner, Carlos Alcaraz, and Tim Iroegbunam, Luiz would represent a clear upgrade in terms of dynamism and control in the middle of the park.

A Midfield Revival Like the Fellaini Era?

During Moyes’ first stint, Marouane Fellaini was the heartbeat of the team—combining brute strength with subtle technical ability. After one dominant run of form in 2010, Moyes declared that Fellaini was “probably the best midfielder in the country.” His commanding presence and ability to dominate physically made him one of the most feared midfielders in England.

While Luiz does not possess the same physical intimidation as Fellaini, his intelligence, energy, and versatility could make him just as valuable to Moyes’ plans. If Everton succeed in bringing him in, Luiz could become the most influential midfielder the Scotsman has worked with since the Belgian powerhouse.

A Bright New Era?

As Everton gear up for their first full campaign under Moyes’ renewed leadership and prepare for life in a brand-new stadium, supporters are daring to believe again. The signings of Branthwaite and Barry mark significant progress, but landing a player of Luiz’s pedigree could genuinely elevate Everton’s standing in the league.

If David Moyes can get the best out of Luiz—as he did with so many players in the past—then Evertonians might just witness the beginning of a new, exciting chapter at the club.