Why Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze could actually impact Everton’s transfer business this summer.
The 2025/26 Premier League season is fast approaching, and Everton manager David Moyes is desperate for more signings.
Moyes has admitted it’s been a tough window, with many of his top targets preferring to join clubs with European football.
The Scotsman is in the market for a creative midfielder, and Manchester City’s James McAtee has been linked to Finch Farm.
Moyes has shortlisted another highly-rated number 10, but his potential arrival could depend on Eberechi Eze.
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Why Eberechi Eze could impact Everton’s transfer business
Everton are exploring a deal to sign Bilal El Khannouss after an impressive individual campaign despite Leicester City’s relegation.
The 21-year-old was their star player and created a whopping 42 chances in the Premier League last term (per FotMob), such is why Moyes is taking a look.
The Foxes are demanding in excess of £25m for El Khannouss, however, the Toffees could now be on the back foot in the race to land his signature.
That’s because Crystal Palace will look to sign the Morocco international if Eberechi Eze ends up joining Arsenal.
Eze has already agreed personal terms with the Gunners, but the two clubs are yet to agree on a fee, as it stands.
So, interestingly, if the Palace talisman completes a move to North London, it would reduce Everton’s chances of signing El Khannouss.
Everton losing ground in McAtee race
Everton are also losing ground in the race to sign McAtee, who they’ve been in talks with for much of the summer window.
Nottingham Forest are working on a deal to sign the England under-21 international, so unless Moyes and his chiefs submit a bid imminently, it looks like he’ll be on his way to the City Ground.
That leaves Gustavo Hamer as Everton’s only attacking midfield target, so perhaps that deal could advance over the next week, or so.
Sheffield United are reportedly demanding £6-10m for Hamer, which would be an absolute bargain for any forthcoming suitors.
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