As Amadou Onana’s move to Aston Villa appears to be practically definite, Everton are looking for a midfielder to replace the Belgian in Sean Dyche’s squad next season. Onana replacements are the Toffees’ first priority. The main issue for Goodison Park’s management is determining how to replace the leaving Onana. While the Belgian’s projected £50 million cost would help bankroll new recruits in the middle of the park, Everton must yet decide who will replace the 22-year-old.
Wilfred Ndidi has long appeared to be Everton’s midfield future, but the Nigerian was unable to sign a new contract with former club Leicester City. Despite leaving the King Power Stadium at the end of last month, a breakthrough in negotiations has seen the 26-year-old return to the club and commit his future to the Foxes. With Ndidi out of the picture, Lesley Ugochukwu has recently gained popularity on Merseyside. According to a report in the French press, Everton is one of several prospective suitors for the Chelsea midfielder, who is expected to leave Stamford Bridge on loan this summer.
Former Leeds United player Weston McKennie joins the Chelsea youngster on the Toffees’ list of objectives. The USA international presently plays for Juventus, but is rumored to be free to leave the club this summer. With Everton still looking for a player to replace Onana’s shoes at Goodison Park, the Toffees are rumored to be interested in another man with previous links to Elland Road. Toffees want out-of-favour Manchester City player.
Everton have expressed an interest in signing Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips, as first reported by Wayne Veysey of Football Insider. According to the publication, the Premier League champions want to move the 28-year-old this summer after he struggled at the Etihad Stadium. The former England international joined Manchester United for £42 million from his hometown club Leeds in the summer of 2022, signing a six-year contract paying a reputed £150,000 per week.
While Phillips has only made 31 appearances in two years with Manchester City, the midfielder arrived with high expectations after playing a key role in Marcelo Bielsa’s Leeds side – City’s Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, spoke highly of Phillips upon his announcement. “His understanding of the game, combined with his passing ability, enthusiasm, and drive, make him a fearsome talent, and he has a strong desire to win. We believe he will be an excellent addition to our squad and suit our game wonderfully.”
While things did not go well for Phillips at Manchester City, there is no doubt that there is still time for the player to recover his old form, and Everton may be the perfect spot for him to do so.
