Everton are reportedly preparing an ambitious quadruple signing spree this summer, targeting Jack Grealish, John Stones, Ben White, and Liam Delap as they aim to capitalise on a perceived opportunity to re-establish themselves as European regulars. According to a report from the i paper, the club's hierarchy sense a 'golden opportunity' to leapfrog underperforming rivals and secure a top-six Premier League finish, which could yield Champions League qualification.
The club currently sits 11th but is just three points behind sixth-placed Brighton, with European qualification a tangible target for the first time since the 2017-18 season. The report states manager David Moyes would be backed with significant signings if European football is secured. The primary target is said to be securing a second successive loan deal for Manchester City winger Jack Grealish. Sources cited by the i paper indicate growing confidence a deal can be struck, with Everton hoping to commit a similar fee to the reported £12m paid for his current season-long loan. It is suggested Grealish's own desire to remain at Goodison Park could aid negotiations with City.
In defence, Everton are linked with a move for former player John Stones, who is set to leave Manchester City as a free agent when his contract expires. The England international starred for Everton between 2013 and 2016 before a £50m move to the Etihad. While his recent years have been hampered by injuries, he remains a highly-regarded centre-back. To strengthen at right-back, the Toffees are reportedly interested in Arsenal's Ben White. The Telegraph has previously suggested there is a genuine chance the 28-year-old could leave the Emirates this summer, having fallen behind Jurrien Timber in the pecking order.
The final piece of the proposed quartet is Chelsea striker Liam Delap. The 23-year-old, who joined Chelsea for £30m from Ipswich Town last summer, has struggled for minutes behind Joao Pedro. The report notes that a move for Delap does not have unanimous approval within the Everton board, with his difficult season at Stamford Bridge seen as a potential red flag. However, his record of 12 Premier League goals for Ipswich the previous season is noted as a mitigating factor. Should the club opt against a move for Delap, TEAMtalk has previously reported that a sensational return for former fan favourite Richarlison from Tottenham could be an alternative.
Combined, the four players cost their current clubs approximately £230m in transfer fees, though Everton would not be required to match those figures, with Grealish likely arriving on another loan, Stones as a free agent, and White and Delap potentially available for reduced sums. This ambitious recruitment drive underscores Everton's intent to break back into the upper echelons of English football, leveraging the instability at clubs like Chelsea, Tottenham, and Newcastle to accelerate their own project under Moyes.
