‘I’m told’: Everton have just emerged as a shock destination for £35m Tottenham player
The Goodison Park hierarchy appear determined to avoid their traditional last-minute scramble in the transfer market, with David Moyes already identifying several key targets to strengthen his squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
While the summer window remains in its infancy, Everton’s recruitment team have wasted no time laying the groundwork for multiple deals, demonstrating a proactive approach that contrasts sharply with previous seasons’ deadline day dramas.
Moyes has cast his net wide across Europe as he seeks to address several problem areas in his squad.
The Scottish manager recently inquired about Manchester City’s talented youngster James McAtee following his surprise omission from the Club World Cup squad, while also registering interest in proven goalscorer Aleksandar Mitrovic after missing out on Chelsea-bound Liam Delap.
Links to Stuttgart’s towering center-forward Nick Woltemade and even Manchester City’s Jack Grealish have surfaced in recent weeks, though the most concrete development concerns Tottenham’s Yves Bissouma – a player who could solve Everton’s impending midfield crisis.
With Orel Mangala and Abdoulaye Doucoure both departing Merseyside this summer, reinforcing central midfield has become an urgent priority. Respected journalist Ben Jacobs reveals the Mali international has emerged as a serious target, though Everton face stiff competition from Aston Villa and newly-promoted Leeds United for the 28-year-old’s signature.
Bissouma’s situation presents an intriguing opportunity for the Toffees, with the combative midfielder entering the final year of his Tottenham contract after joining from Brighton in a deal that could have reached £35 million in 2022.
Strategic Move for Proven Premier League Quality
Bissouma’s potential availability at a reduced fee represents exactly the type of shrewd business Everton must conduct this summer.
Industry insiders suggest a bid in the region of £15 million could tempt Tottenham into selling rather than risking losing him for nothing in twelve months, though Daniel Levy’s notorious negotiating tactics may complicate matters.
The former Brighton enforcer would bring much-needed steel and Premier League experience to Everton’s engine room, qualities that became increasingly precious during last season’s relegation battle.
Jacobs’ report indicates Bissouma prefers remaining in England’s top flight, keeping Everton firmly in contention despite interest from elsewhere. However, the journalist cautions that this transfer saga may develop slowly, with all parties potentially waiting until after the financial year concludes to formalize any agreement.
This measured timeline could actually benefit Everton, allowing them to assess other options while maintaining dialogue with Tottenham over a player who made 25 league appearances last term.
Balancing Short-Term Needs with Long-Term Planning
While Bissouma would address an immediate need, Everton’s simultaneous pursuit of younger talents like McAtee and Woltemade demonstrates a welcome balance between present requirements and future planning.
The potential addition of a seasoned campaigner like Bissouma could provide vital stability during what promises to be another transitional season at Goodison Park, while also allowing emerging players time to develop without excessive pressure.
Financially, a deal in the reported £15 million range would represent sensible business for a player of Bissouma’s caliber, especially considering Everton’s need to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules.
His wages may present a stumbling block, but the chance to establish himself as the midfield anchor at an historic club could appeal to a player seeking regular first-team football after mixed fortunes in North London.
As Everton’s summer plans continue taking shape, the pursuit of Bissouma highlights their determination to act decisively in the market. Securing his signature would send a strong message about their ambitions while addressing one of the squad’s most glaring weaknesses.
With competition for places intensifying across the Premier League, Moyes knows reinforcing his midfield options could prove the difference between another season of struggle and a comfortable mid-table finish.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Everton’s early-window activity translates into concrete reinforcements, but their proactive approach suggests lessons have been learned from previous transfer missteps.