Zinedine Zidane has already given ‘interesting’ Takefusa Kubo verdict as Everton work their magic

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Everton have already been given the seal of approval by Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane to sign a winger this summer transfer window.

David Moyes has made a right-winger a top priority ahead of the fast-approaching 2025/26 Premier League season.

Everton have shown an interest in Tom Fellows since the January window, however, that rumour has gone quiet recently.

Omari Hutchinson is also another name on Moyes’ shortlist, although, Brentford are leading the race to land his signature.

Everton are also exploring a deal to sign Takefusa Kubo from Real Sociedad and it’s understood a bid is being lined up.

Interestingly, Zinedine Zidane has praised Kubo previously.

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Everton target Takefusa Kubo praised by Zinedine Zidane

Kubo appears to be Moyes’ top target and it’s reported the Japan international is keen on a move to the Premier League.

The 24-year-old registered 11 goal involvements for the Spanish outfit last season, including four strikes in the Europa League.

• 52 appearances
• 7 goals
• 4 assists

Speaking in 2020, then Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane praised Kubo whilst he was on loan at Mallorca from Real Madrid.

“I think he’s having a good season,” Zidane explained. “He’s playing a lot and that’s what we all wanted. He is a very interesting player, for the present and the future. I’m happy he’s doing well.

I wish him the best and urge him to continue like this. His future, though, we won’t decide until the summer. That’s something for later.”

Kubo’s incredible underlying data

If Everton do manage to land Kubo’s signature, it’d be a real coup as his underlying data is absolutely incredible.

The left-footed playmaker ranks in the top one per cent for progressive carries per 90 compared to his positional peers across Europe, as per FBref.

Kubo also sits in the top four per cent for shot-creating actions and 10 per cent for expected assisted goals, evincing how creative he is.

The Japanese wide player has been likened to Lionel Messi due to his wand of a left-foot, so there’s certainly plenty of reason to be excited about his potential arrival at Finch Farm.