Report: Everton Receive Major Transfer Boost as ‘Exceptional’ Striker Rejects AC Milan and Waits for Premier League Switch
Everton have received a significant boost in their pursuit of a new number nine, as reports suggest a high-profile striker has turned down interest from AC Milan and is now prioritising a move to the Premier League — with the Toffees among the clubs monitoring his situation closely.
With the summer transfer window now in full swing, new manager David Moyes is tasked with rebuilding a depleted Everton squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. One of the most urgent priorities for the club is signing a proven centre-forward following the departure of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who is set to leave Goodison Park when his contract expires at the end of June. Additionally, Armando Broja has returned to Chelsea after his loan spell, further thinning the club’s attacking options.
Major Overhaul Underway at Goodison Park
Everton are undergoing a significant squad overhaul this summer, as several first-team players have exited following the expiration of their contracts. The lack of depth, particularly in attack, has left Moyes with only a few options heading into pre-season, with Beto currently standing as the only senior striker available.
Recognising the urgent need to reinforce their forward line, the Toffees have made signing a top-tier striker their top priority in the transfer window. Club officials, including Angus Kinnear — a key figure in the club’s recruitment setup — are scouring the market for potential solutions.
Vlahovic Signals Intent for Premier League Move
One name that has emerged prominently on Everton’s radar is Serbian international Dusan Vlahovic, currently at Juventus. The 24-year-old striker has attracted widespread attention due to his physical prowess, eye for goal, and clinical finishing, but his future in Turin has come under increasing doubt in recent weeks.
According to journalist Rudy Galetti, Vlahovic has made it known that his preference is to join a Premier League club this summer. While there has been interest from various quarters — including a formal approach from Serie A giants AC Milan — the striker reportedly views that as a backup plan should his move to England fail to materialise.
Nottingham Forest are currently believed to have shown the most concrete interest among Premier League clubs. However, Everton remain in the frame and could look to make a bold move, especially given their desperation to strengthen their frontline.
Financial Challenge for the Toffees
While the idea of signing a striker of Vlahovic’s calibre is exciting for Everton supporters, there are significant financial hurdles that may stand in the way. Chief among them is Vlahovic’s wage demands — the player is reportedly seeking a £200,000-per-week salary, a figure that could strain Everton’s wage structure.
Even so, the Toffees haven’t placed all their hopes on Vlahovic alone.
Other Targets on Everton’s Radar
Everton are also actively pursuing Thierno Barry, the Villarreal forward who has impressed with his blend of pace, movement, and finishing. Discussions between Everton and Villarreal are already underway, with sources suggesting that negotiations have progressed positively.
Adding Barry could be a more financially viable option for Everton, and he fits the club’s emerging recruitment strategy — focusing on younger, high-upside talents with room for development.
Friedkin Family Backing Club’s Recruitment Drive
Under the ownership of the Friedkin family, Everton have assembled a robust recruitment team tasked with modernising the club’s transfer approach. With a clear mandate to bring in quality rather than quantity, the club hopes that intelligent investment in the right areas will reverse their fortunes after several seasons of instability and underperformance.
The recruitment team, led by Kinnear and supported by Moyes, is working tirelessly to identify players who not only meet the club’s immediate needs but also align with its long-term vision. The hope is that this new strategy, backed by increased investment and a clearer footballing philosophy, can lead to a more competitive and sustainable future.
Final Thoughts
With the departure of Calvert-Lewin and the return of Broja to Chelsea, Everton are walking a tightrope heading into the new season. The pursuit of Dusan Vlahovic is ambitious and signals the club’s intent to reassert itself in the Premier League. While financial constraints may complicate a deal for the Serbian striker, the club’s proactive approach in identifying alternatives like Thierno Barry shows that they are not placing all their eggs in one basket.
Whether or not Everton land their top target, it is clear the club is making strides toward reshaping their squad — with the Premier League’s most competitive strikers firmly in their sights.