Everton are reportedly on the cusp of finalizing a deal for Southampton winger Tyler Dibling, a move that will push their summer spending past the £100 million mark. After having two previous offers turned down, the Merseyside club appears close to securing the highly-rated teenager.
Negotiations between Everton and Southampton have been ongoing, with the Championship club initially setting a hefty £50 million price tag on Dibling. Everton were hesitant to meet that valuation, but Southampton initiated talks on Friday, leading to a compromise on a basic fee with add-ons, potentially totaling under £42 million. Some reports indicate the agreed fee is £42 million including £6 million in add-ons. The deal is also expected to include a 20% sell-on clause for Southampton.
Dibling has already agreed to personal terms with Everton, and is expected to undergo a medical early next week. The 19-year-old is considered one of England's hottest prospects, and Everton manager David Moyes has been searching for a right winger throughout the summer. Dibling's arrival would fill that void.
Dibling's potential move to Everton comes after he made 33 Premier League appearances for Southampton last season, scoring two goals. Although he featured in 38 games across all competitions, scoring four goals and providing three assists, he only played seven minutes for Southampton this season, fueling speculation about his departure. He came off the bench in the 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town last weekend. He was eager to explore a return to the top flight after Southampton's relegation.
If the deal goes through, Dibling will become David Moyes' eighth summer signing. So far, Everton have brought in Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Thierno Barry, Charly Alcaraz, Mark Travers, and Adam Aznou, along with Tom King and Jack Grealish. These acquisitions have already seen Everton's summer spending climb significantly.
This summer's transfer activity signifies a shift in Everton's approach, as new owners seem committed to investing in the squad. With concerns about Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) seemingly behind them, and with over £100 million in Premier League revenue, Everton fans are expecting substantial spending to bolster the team.
Prior to agreeing to a deal for Dibling, Moyes had considered other wingers, including Francisco Conceicao, Malick Fofana, and Johan Bakayoko. Without a natural right winger, Moyes had to deploy players out of position.
With the potential arrival of Dibling, Everton's summer spending is set to exceed £100 million, marking a significant investment in the squad under David Moyes and the new ownership.