Everton have landed their first signing of the summer in Hayden Hackney, and now they have got the taste for it.
On Wednesday, Everton confirmed Hackney’s arrival on Merseyside, which was quickly followed up by a number of transfer rumours.
One of those was Everton’s interest in Japanese forward Keito Nakamura following his exploits at the World Cup with the Japanese national side.
Now Hackney is confirmed, who should Everton be bringing in next? 💰
Time to take our foot off the brake pedal in the market…
Everton do need to strengthen their squad considerably following the frustrating end to the 2025/26 campaign.
As fans have seen through previous signings, David Moyes wants players who are ready to hit the ground running and Nakamura has shown how he could potentially do just that.
How Keito Nakamura could hit the ground running at Everton
During his four games at this summer’s World Cup, the Japanese winger provided a return of one goal and one assist.
The 25-year-old’s performances have caught Everton’s attention, but it is what he has done off the pitch that is even more impressive.
After Japan’s loss to Brazil earlier in the week, Nakamura performed a post-match interview with ESPN where he spoke perfect English.
What is your message to Hayden Hackney after he inks his contract with Everton? 👋
Welcome to Merseyside, Hayden! 🤩
Nakamura has played his career in Japan, Belgium, Austria and France, but never England, yet the 25-year-old spoke for over two minutes in fluent English.
| Ligue 2 – 2025/26 | Total |
| Appearances | 29 |
| Minutes | 2357 |
| Goals | 14 |
| Assists | 2 |
You have to compare this to someone like Charly Alcaraz, who has struggled on the whole since he landed on Merseyside.
It has been suggested that Moyes has approved Alcaraz’s possible Everton sale this summer.
The Argentine landed in England back in January of last year and found the new language a significant obstacle.
Jack Harrison often spoke to Alcaraz in Spanish as an easier way to communicate with the signing from Flamengo.
However, this would not be the case for Nakamura, who already has the ability to communicate with everyone at Finch Farm without any issues.
There would still likely be some adjustment for the 25-year-old to adapt to the lifestyle of living in England.
Speaking the language as fluently as he does is a huge advantage, though, and adds another feather to his cap.
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