Everton Football Club is reportedly nearing a deal for Chelsea midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, signaling a continuation of their summer investment. According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Everton has reached an agreement with Chelsea for the permanent signing of the 26-year-old, with the deal worth £25 million fixed, plus add-ons potentially reaching £28-29 million. Personal terms have also been agreed upon, with a medical expected imminently.
Dewsbury-Hall's potential arrival would mark Everton's fourth signing of the summer, following striker Thierno Barry, goalkeeper Mark Travers, and full-back Adam Aznou. Everton manager David Moyes has been vocal about the need for squad reinforcements, stating that the club needed "nine or 10" new signings this summer, a figure which includes the players already brought in. After the departures of Abdoulaye Doucoure and Orel Mangala, strengthening the midfield has become a priority for Moyes.
The midfielder joined Chelsea last summer from Leicester City, reuniting with manager Enzo Maresca. While he made 31 appearances for Chelsea across all competitions, including every game of their Europa Conference League-winning run, he only started two Premier League games. With Chelsea bringing in new midfielders, they are willing to let Dewsbury-Hall leave after just one season.
Everton's pursuit of Dewsbury-Hall isn't the only transfer activity ongoing at the club. They have also been heavily linked with Southampton winger Tyler Dibling. Everton have had multiple bids rejected for the 19-year-old, with their latest offer around £40 million including add-ons. Southampton are reportedly holding out for a package closer to £45 million. Dibling is reportedly open to the move.
Despite the potential arrival of Dewsbury-Hall and their interest in Dibling, Everton have faced setbacks in their pursuit of other targets. Lyon winger Malick Fofana has reportedly turned down a move to Everton, as he desires to play Champions League football.
These transfer activities come amidst the backdrop of Everton's well-documented financial challenges. In April 2024, the club posted a post-tax loss of £89.1 million for the 2022-23 season, more than double the previous year's loss. Everton had a 10-point deduction imposed by the Premier League for breaching Profitability and Sustainability Rules, although this was later reduced to six points. Despite these challenges, the club's financial position has shown signs of improvement. The Friedkin Group's takeover in December 2024 has led to a restructuring of the club's finances, including converting an interest-free loan into equity and refinancing stadium debt. In the latest club accounts, Everton announced losses of £53.2m, an improvement on the £89.1m loss reported in the previous year.
