With the January transfer window fast approaching, one Champions League talent appears set to depart his club, with Everton named as the leading contender for his signature.
Everton have endured a turbulent start to the Premier League season, finding themselves embroiled in yet another relegation battle.
Sean Dyche’s side squandered points from winning positions against both Bournemouth and Aston Villa, leaving fans at Goodison Park on edge.
However, the Toffees seemed to steady the ship just before the international break, drawing twice and picking up a crucial victory against fellow strugglers Crystal Palace.
That victory provided Dyche with some breathing room, though whispers of change continue to linger.
The Friedkin Group, reportedly eyeing a takeover of Everton, are rumoured to be considering alternatives, including Maurizio Sarri, to lead the team if the situation worsens.
But for now, Dyche remains in charge and will aim to build on the team’s recent progress when they face Ipswich Town in a crucial encounter after the break.
Should Dyche still be at the helm in January, he could receive much-needed reinforcements, with Everton reportedly linked to a significant acquisition.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, via Sport Witness, Samuel Chukwueze of AC Milan is primed for a January exit, with Everton identified as the club most likely to secure his services.
The 25-year-old Nigerian winger, valued at around €14 million (£12 million), has struggled for playing time at Milan, starting just two Serie A matches this season. Chukwueze’s situation has deteriorated to the point where he is reportedly preparing to leave the San Siro, just months after completing his transfer from Villarreal in the summer of 2023.
A swift departure would highlight just how poorly his stint in Italy has gone, but a move to Everton could provide both the player and the club with an opportunity for redemption. With his dazzling performances in La Liga still fresh in the minds of many, Chukwueze has the potential to rediscover his best form on Merseyside.
A Timely Boost for Everton:
Even though Chukwueze’s spell at Milan hasn’t gone to plan, Everton could offer him the platform to shine once again.
He was one of the standout performers in Spain, helping Villarreal punch above their weight domestically and in Europe. If Everton can capitalise on his desire for a fresh start, they might just pull off a major coup in January.
The San Siro faithful will no doubt be frustrated that Chukwueze’s talents haven’t translated into consistent performances for Milan. Teammate Rafael Leao even praised the Nigerian as “great” last season, but the winger has been unable to replicate the 13 goals and 11 assists he delivered in his final campaign at Villarreal.
A January exit now appears inevitable, and Everton could be the ones to benefit from his departure.
For Dyche, securing a player of Chukwueze’s calibre would inject much-needed quality into the squad as the Toffees look to pull away from the relegation zone.
With Goodison Park crying out for some attacking flair, the Nigerian winger could be exactly what Everton need to spark their revival.