Report: Everton has joined Jurgen Klopp in the race for Southampton Starlet
Everton have now set their sights on signing Southampton starlet Tyler Dibling this summer, with their interest emerging shortly after former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp seemingly scuppered one of their top transfer targets.
Klopp, who built a dominant legacy during his time at Anfield, often frustrated Everton on the pitch with an impressive record of 11 wins, six draws, and just two defeats from 19 Merseyside derbies. Now, even from afar, he continues to make things difficult for the blue half of the city.
Since stepping away from club management, Klopp has taken up a new role as Head of Global Soccer at the Red Bull Group, which oversees several clubs, including Bundesliga side RB Leipzig. That position has already had an indirect impact on Everton’s transfer business.
Klopp’s Influence Blocks Bakayoko Move
According to The Times on Friday (25 July), Klopp personally played a key role in persuading Belgian winger Johan Bakayoko to join RB Leipzig instead of Everton. The Toffees had made Bakayoko a high-priority target this summer in their quest to bolster the flanks. However, Klopp reportedly spoke to the young attacker during the negotiation process and helped tip the scales in Leipzig’s favour.
His influence, reputation, and strategic vision appear to have been crucial in Bakayoko’s decision, leaving Everton forced to reconsider their options in the transfer market. Manager David Moyes is still determined to reinforce wide areas and attacking positions ahead of the new season, prompting the club to pivot quickly toward other emerging talents.
Tyler Dibling Now on Everton’s Radar
In light of the Bakayoko setback, Everton have turned their attention to 19-year-old Southampton winger Tyler Dibling. The highly-rated teenager is now firmly on the club’s shortlist of potential summer additions.
Dibling is known for his versatility and technical ability. While his primary role is on the right wing, he is also comfortable operating as an attacking midfielder and has occasionally been deployed as a centre-forward. In that central role last season, he managed to contribute to three goals — a promising return for a player still in the early stages of his career.
Such flexibility is seen as a major asset by Everton’s recruitment team, who believe Dibling has the attributes to develop into a key player over time. Although Southampton suffered relegation from the Premier League, Dibling impressed with his ability to keep pace with top-tier football — a trait that could serve Everton well in the seasons ahead.
Deal Still in Early Stages
While Everton’s interest in Dibling is serious, negotiations are not yet advanced. A potential obstacle in the deal could be the teenager’s asking price. Southampton are reportedly demanding a significant fee, and with Everton working under a limited summer budget, careful financial planning will be needed if a move is to materialise.
That said, the club is continuing to monitor the situation closely, and Dibling remains one of several young talents on their radar. Everton are keen to blend promising prospects with experienced additions in an effort to rejuvenate the squad and build long-term stability.
Should a deal be struck, Dibling would be viewed as a signing with high potential — someone who could play a supporting role in the short term while developing into a key first-team contributor in the years to come.
For now, the focus remains on strengthening the squad before the transfer window closes. But with Klopp already disrupting Everton’s summer plans once, the Toffees will be eager to move quickly and decisively as they push for alternative signings.