Moyes wants Everton to sign a ‘big talent’ at the back comparable to Philipp Lahm
Everton’s search for a new right-back has become one of David Moyes’ priorities this summer.
The departure of long-term options and the need for more competition on the right side of the defense have left the Blues carefully evaluating the market, with several names tested in recent weeks, including Tottenham and England defender Djed Spence.
After strengthening the midfield with Hayden Hackney and continuing to reshape the squad elsewhere, attention has now shifted to finding a full-back who can make an immediate impact while fitting Moyes’ long-term plans.
One player has now emerged as the best player.
Everton are looking to land Man City defender Rico Lewis
According to TEAMtalk, Moyes wants Everton to sign Man City defender Rico Lewis.
The report claims the Toffees boss is very fond of the 21-year-old and believes he could be part of Everton’s rebuild if a deal can be agreed with the Premier League runners-up.
They add that Everton’s interest should be taken seriously, and is ‘one to watch’.
It’s easy to understand why Lewis applied.
Why Rico Lewis is not good for Everton
Although naturally a right-back, the England international developed into one of the most versatile young players in English football under former City manager Pep Guardiola.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
TEAMtalk has strengthened its reputation for Premier League transfer reporting in recent years, particularly through journalists with well-known club contacts. However, specialization should always be treated with caution until independently verified. |
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Finance |
Lewis still has a long-term contract at City, meaning Everton will likely need to pay a hefty fee. City’s strong negotiating position and the defender’s status increase his value significantly, so any deal would represent one of Everton’s biggest financial commitments in the current transfer window. |
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Understanding |
Lewis stands out because of his versatility. Equally comfortable at right back or in midfield, he learns the game quickly, rarely wastes his space and adapts to different systems. Those qualities have earned him repeated praise from Pep Guardiola despite stiff competition from the City team. |
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Impact |
Signing Lewis would give Everton much more than a new right-back. He would allow Moyes to cover many holes at the same time, and his technical quality would improve the play of the formation team. At just 21 years old, he could be a cornerstone of Everton’s team for years to come. |
Comfortable slotting into the center of the pitch, operating as a wing-back or playing a more traditional defensive role, Lewis has repeatedly shown an intellectual prowess beyond his years.
Guardiola has never hidden how much he rates him.
He has previously described Lewis as a “huge talent” and compared him favorably to German legend Philipp Lahm, calling the scholarship “our little Philipp Lahm” due to his football intelligence and ability to move seamlessly between defense and midfield.
Guardiola also praised Lewis for making those around him better, highlighting the youngster’s awareness and decision-making as rare qualities in a player of his age.
Everton have traditionally relied on hard-working and disciplined defenders, but the modern game is increasingly looking for defenders who can play a role in possession.
Lewis provides that balance.
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His composure on the ball, passing distance and positional versatility will give Moyes great options without sacrificing defensive integrity.
The biggest obstacle remains convincing the City, which will approve its exit, but only for the right price.
Lewis is a product of City’s academy and has been trusted in the big games of the Premier League and Champions League despite fierce competition for places.
Even if regular chances become more difficult to secure, City are unlikely to let one of their homegrown talents leave without receiving a significant offer.
