Everton have registered their interest in signing Ainsley Maitland-Niles from Lyon, according to TEAMtalk. The Toffees are seeking defensive reinforcements this summer and view the versatile player as a potential solution to strengthen their full-back options.
Everton’s pursuit of Maitland-Niles comes as they prepare for the departure of Seamus Coleman and potentially Nathan Patterson. The club is prioritizing a new right-back, with Jake O’Brien potentially shifting to centre-back if a suitable addition is made. Other players Everton have considered include Aaron Wan-Bissaka of West Ham, Ben White of Arsenal, Guela Doule of Strasbourg, Raoul Bellanova of Atalanta, and Juanlu Sanchez of Sevilla.
Maitland-Niles, 28, joined Lyon in 2023 after a lengthy spell with Arsenal. He has successfully rebuilt his reputation in France, becoming a key player for the Ligue 1 club due to his ability to play at both full-back, wing-back, and in midfield. While Lyon are currently happy with the player and do not want to sell, they are aware that Maitland-Niles has only one year remaining on his contract and may consider offers.
Everton are not the only Premier League club interested in the former Arsenal academy graduate. Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, and Fulham have all reportedly made checks on his situation. Newcastle, in particular, are assessing options following the departures of Kieran Trippier, Matt Targett, and Emil Krafth, though they remain hopeful of retaining Lewis Hall and Tino Livramento. Crystal Palace are drawn to his experience and adaptability, while Forest and Fulham have also been kept informed.
No formal bids have been submitted at this stage, but discussions are progressing as clubs evaluate their options. Maitland-Niles is reportedly open to a return to the Premier League, having enjoyed a successful period in England with Arsenal. His Premier League experience is seen as a positive by Everton, who are looking to add proven quality to their squad. The player is currently happy at Lyon, but a compelling project in England could prove attractive.
