Everton plot bold £35m swoop as Moyes targets “physical” La Liga powerhouse in major January overhaul

Everton are reportedly stepping up preparations for a huge January transfer window, with fresh claims suggesting the Toffees are now firmly in the race to sign a standout La Liga defender — competing directly with Leeds United and Juventus for his signature.

Everton eye ambitious La Liga raid as transfer plans escalate

As January draws closer, Everton’s recruitment strategy appears increasingly focused on Spain. New reports indicate they’ve joined the chase for Conor Gallagher, with the Atlético Madrid midfielder expected to push for a winter exit. Gallagher’s potential arrival would underline the club’s rapid rise since moving into the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

David Moyes’ side sit 10th, just three points from fourth-placed Chelsea, and a European charge is far from unrealistic if their current momentum continues.

Yet Gallagher is only one piece of a much broader Toffees rebuild. Everton’s recruitment team — backed by owner Dan Friedkin** — are exploring deals across the pitch, starting with attacking reinforcements.

Thierno Barry is showing flashes of promise but remains goalless since joining for £27m, prompting Everton to explore a move for **Franculino Dju**, who is also attracting serious interest from Bayern Munich.

Meanwhile, attention has also turned to the backline — and that’s where their biggest battle may be unfolding.

Everton enter £35m fight for Real Betis defender Natan

Sources in Spain now claim Everton are prepared to go head-to-head with Leeds United and Juventus to sign Natan, Real Betis’ rising centre-back.
The 24-year-old is expected to command a fee of around €40m (£35m) in January after a standout season in La Liga.

Described as a “physical” and imposing defender by Como scout Ben Mattinson, Natan has already experienced top-level football in both Italy (with Napoli) and Spain. A Premier League switch is now firmly on the table, with Everton and Leeds both pushing hard.

Standing 6ft 2in, Natan fits the mould of Moyes’ defence — a unit already stacked with aerial power. With Jarrad Branthwaite battling repeated injury issues, the Brazilian would likely walk into regular minutes at Goodison Park.

A decisive January looms for Friedkin and Moyes

If Everton are to sustain a European push this season, strengthening the squad in January will be essential. Whether it’s Natan, Gallagher, Dju, or all three, the Toffees’ hierarchy appear ready to replicate last summer’s efficiency and inject real quality into Moyes’ evolving side.

A busy winter window on Merseyside is now very much on the cards.