Transfer News: David Moyes is now Overjoyed with the recent development as £20m Target Gives Green Light to Summer Move Following Everton Talks
David Moyes has received a significant boost in his summer transfer plans after one of his key targets, Manchester City youngster James McAtee, gave the go-ahead to pursue a move away from the Etihad Stadium. The news comes just days after Everton initiated discussions over a potential transfer, as the Merseyside club seeks to bolster its midfield creativity ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
Thierno Barry Becomes First Summer Signing – But More Are Needed
Everton fans finally had something to celebrate this week after the official confirmation of striker Thierno Barry’s arrival from Villarreal. The French U21 international joins for a reported £20 million fee and becomes the first addition of the David Moyes era since his return to Goodison Park.
Barry, who caught the eye in Spain with his pace and movement, is seen as a long-term investment, and Moyes believes the young striker has the potential to flourish in English football. Speaking after the transfer was confirmed, the Everton boss said:
“We are delighted to have brought Thierno to the Club. We see lots of potential and we are hoping for good things from him.”
However, Moyes was also quick to stress that Barry’s signing is just the beginning. With several attacking players leaving the club at the end of June, the manager made it clear that further reinforcements are urgently required.
“I’m hoping to make more additions in the coming weeks,” he added in a subtle message to the Everton hierarchy.
McAtee Signals Intent to Leave Manchester City in Search of First-Team Football
That reinforcement could now come in the form of James McAtee, who has reportedly informed Manchester City of his intention to seek a new challenge this summer. The 21-year-old attacking midfielder is considered one of City’s most promising academy graduates but has found first-team opportunities hard to come by under Pep Guardiola.
According to Sky Sports, McAtee is open to a transfer and is actively looking for a club that can guarantee him regular game time to continue his development. Everton, Nottingham Forest, and Crystal Palace are among the Premier League sides showing strong interest in securing his services.
McAtee spent last season on loan at Sheffield United, where he gained valuable experience in the top flight. While the Blades were relegated, McAtee impressed with his technical ability and vision, proving he can handle the rigors of Premier League football.
Everton Lead the Chase After Early Talks with McAtee
Everton appear to be leading the race at this stage, having already initiated direct talks with McAtee’s representatives earlier this week. The Toffees are keen to build a youthful and dynamic attacking core, and the potential partnership between McAtee and Barry is seen as a tantalising prospect.
With Barry still relatively untested in the Premier League, Moyes is determined to surround him with players who can supply service and ease the pressure of adaptation. McAtee, with his creative instincts and passing range, fits that bill perfectly.
Adding McAtee to the squad could also help Everton shift toward a more possession-based style, a goal Moyes hinted at during pre-season preparations. The midfielder’s technical ability and tactical intelligence could provide a much-needed spark in the middle of the park.
Moyes Wastes No Time – Pre-Season Already Underway
With pre-season already in motion and Moyes overseeing training sessions at Finch Farm, time is of the essence. The Scot, who returned to the club with a clear mandate to rebuild and push Everton up the table, knows how important it is to get his business done early.
Angus Kinnear and the club’s recruitment team are under pressure to deliver multiple signings before the season kicks off. The Barry deal is seen as a positive step in the right direction, but with a thin squad and injuries always a risk, more depth is needed across the pitch—particularly in midfield and wide areas.
A New Era Begins at Goodison Park
As Everton fans look ahead to the upcoming season with cautious optimism, the club’s transfer activity in the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping expectations. With Barry signed and McAtee now seemingly within reach, Moyes is laying the foundation for a younger, more energetic side capable of competing across the league.
Should the McAtee deal materialise, it would represent another signal of intent from the Toffees—proof that the club is willing to back its manager with promising talent for both the present and the future.
For now, all eyes remain on the negotiations with Manchester City. But with McAtee eager to move and Everton in pole position, the blue half of Merseyside may soon have more to cheer about.