Transfer News

Carlo Ancelotti’s 2019 Everton target made World Cup history last night

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Everton made some statement signings during Carlo Ancelotti’s reign in charge.

James Rodriguez’s arrival on Merseyside raised eyebrows around the Premier League as he left Real Madrid.

Allan from Napoli was also a real coup, and Ancelotti tried to sign another attacker from the Bernabeu, too.

Now Hackney is confirmed, who should Everton be bringing in next? 💰

Time to take our foot off the brake pedal in the market…

Hayden Hackney of England poses for a photograph during the official UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025 Winners' Portraits shoot following the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2025 Final match between England and Germany at National Football stadium.
Credit: Getty Images/Tullio Puglia – UEFA

Ultimately, the Toffees failed to get a deal done, and now he’s absolutely flourishing at the World Cup in America.

Morocco international Brahim Diaz.
Photo by Hannah Peters – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Former Everton target Brahim Diaz makes World Cup history

According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Everton were keen on signing Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz back in 2019.

The La Liga giants were willing to let Diaz depart on a loan deal, but for whatever reason, Ancelotti’s Toffees appeared to pivot to other targets.

Now, Diaz is a regular first-teamer for Real, and he’s also established himself as Morocco’s talisman.

Let us know your immediate thoughts! 🤩

Everton home kit 2026/27
Credit: Everton

The 26-year-old played a key role in his nation’s 3-0 victory against Canada last night and became the first African footballer to register four assists in a single World Cup.

The left-footed playmaker will now take on France in the quarter-finals of the competition as Morocco look to reach the semi-finals for the second World Cup in a row.

Everton scouts will no doubt be watching on and thinking what could’ve been, as their alternate target didn’t really work out at all.

Ancelotti’s only attacking loan during his 18 months on Merseyside was Joshua King, who failed to register a single goal or assist in 11 appearances.

The 34-year-old now plies his trade for Al-Khaleej FC in the Saudi Pro League.