NafisaEverton are preparing for a pivotal summer transfer window.
The Friedkin Group are poised to pour significant funds into David Moyes’ squad as they aim to elevate Everton’s standing in the league.
The Toffees have already made multiple enquiries in recent weeks, with Manchester City’s John Stones on Moyes’ wishlist.
Pep Guardiola has yet to finalise a decision on Stones’ future, however, it’s understood the player is intrigued by the idea of returning to Merseyside.
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Yves Bissouma is also being identified as a potential Everton addition, though Aston Villa and Leeds United are also in the mix.
Now, it has emerged that Arne Slot has held a meeting with an Everton target, placing Moyes and the club’s hierarchy under pressure.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot meets Everton target Rayan Cherki:
Everton have been monitoring Lyon’s Rayan Cherki—branded a ‘superstar’—for several weeks and have been made aware that it would take £34m to complete a deal.
Cherki left the field in tears in the final match of the season, suggesting he’s fully aware of his impending departure from the club this summer.
The Toffees had been encouraged in their pursuit of Cherki over the weekend following reports that he had doubts about joining Manchester City.
However, according to The Athletic, Liverpool may swoop in to capture Cherki, with Arne Slot reportedly cutting short his holiday to meet the French attacking midfielder.
Slot spoke with the 21-year-old in the South of France, though the club appears to be prioritising the signing of Florian Wirtz.
Cherki seems unlikely for Everton
Even if Liverpool decide to go for Wirtz instead of Cherki, it still appears to be a very challenging deal for Everton to pull off, especially with Manchester City still in a strong position to secure his signing.
While there are lingering doubts from Cherki about committing to a move to the Etihad, there is growing belief that an understanding will eventually be reached.
James McAtee appears to be a more attainable option for Moyes, especially after the 2002-born midfielder was excluded from City’s Club World Cup squad.
Sheffield United’s Gustavo Hamer also remains under consideration by Everton, giving them several viable alternatives to Cherki.
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