Everton are yet to see the Tyler Dibling of last season.
The Toffees spent £40m to sign the England U21 international from Southampton back in August after he enjoyed a superb 2024/25 campaign – scoring four goals and providing three assists in 38 appearances as he shone for the relegated Saints.
However, the 19-year-old has struggled at the Hill Dickinson Stadium so far, failing to score or assist a goal in 14 games this season.
The struggles of Tyler Dibling prove it can be hard to replicate success with a struggling side at a more established Premier League outfit such as Everton – which is exactly why The Friedkin Group need to think twice about Mateus Mane.
Everton might repeat Tyler Dibling mistake in signing Mateus Mane
TEAMtalk now state that Everton are keen to sign the England U18 international due to his outstanding performances for Wolves this season.
If you were David Moyes, which three players would you want to sign in January?
Mane has scored two goals – including the equaliser against Everton on Wednesday – and also provided two assists in ten Premier League outings so far this season, proving to be a bright light in an otherwise abysmal campaign for Wolves.
While the 18-year-old would be an exciting addition, Everton need to consider why Dibling is struggling to showcase his talent before signing yet another star from a relegated side.
The Toffees also need to be wary of filling the attacking department with too many prospects.
Like Dibling, the 23-year-old Thierno Barry is struggling as he attempts to acclimatise to English football following his £27.6m move from Villarreal, netting just three goals in 21 Premier League games.
Should Mane arrive and also struggle, Moyes would be left with a seriously young attack who need time to develop, time Everton cannot afford to give. Experienced players who can deliver immediately are needed as well to bring some balance to the attack.
The Friedkin Group have already found the sweet spot for recruitment at Everton
While Mane is a risk despite his talent, signing older players can also backfire, which fans are now finding out with the 30-year-old Jack Grealish as he begins to struggle.
Would you even pay £30m for Jack Grealish? 🫣
However, Everton have already found a profile that works for them in Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
The 27-year-old is right in the midst of his prime and is delivering for Everton this season, netting four goals and assisting another three in 15 Premier League appearances this term.
Packing the squad with profiles like this, who have experience of English football and are in a position to deliver immediate results, is exactly what The Friedkin Group should be focused on.
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