Everton F.C. scouts are reportedly monitoring a young winger who is enjoying an impressive breakthrough campaign in the Championship, as the club prepares for possible changes in their squad this summer.
The Toffees have enjoyed a strong season under manager David Moyes, a welcome improvement after several recent battles against relegation. The club are now even dreaming of returning to European competition for the first time since the 2017/18 season.
However, one senior player could depart at the end of the campaign. If Dwight McNeil leaves the club, Everton are expected to move quickly to bring in a replacement.
Everton monitoring Watford youngster
According to reports from SportsBoom, Everton are keeping a close watch on Othmane Maamma, a promising winger who has enjoyed a standout season with Watford F.C..
The 20-year-old joined Watford from Montpellier HSC last summer in a deal worth around £1 million. Since then, he has impressed in the EFL Championship, registering five goal contributions in 20 appearances.
Everton’s recruitment plans are also being shaped by the club’s new ownership under The Friedkin Group, who are reportedly prepared to support Moyes financially in the upcoming transfer window.
Despite already signing three wingers this season — Jack Grealish, Tyler Dibling and Tyrique George — the Merseyside club are still exploring additional options.
Everton are also keen to bring Grealish back for another season following his loan from Manchester City F.C.. Even though the winger suffered a season-ending injury, he is reportedly open to returning to Goodison Park.
Meanwhile, McNeil’s future remains uncertain. The winger was close to joining Crystal Palace F.C. in January before a deadline-day deal collapsed. A move away from Everton could still happen this summer if the right offer arrives.
Both Everton and Brentford F.C. have reportedly been closely monitoring Maamma’s development. However, signing him would not come cheaply. Watford have tied him down to a contract until 2029 and are believed to value him at no less than £15 million.
Everton prioritising experienced options
Although Everton continue to track emerging talents like Maamma, sources suggest the club are also prioritising more experienced players to strengthen their wide options.
Young prospects Dibling and George are already part of the club’s long-term plans, with the latter’s loan from Chelsea F.C. including an option to make the move permanent.
Another name high on Everton’s shortlist is Harry Wilson of Fulham F.C., whose contract expires at the end of the season. It is considered unlikely that Everton would pursue both Wilson and Maamma, particularly if Grealish returns.
Moyes is believed to prefer players who can strengthen his starting lineup immediately. Club officials also believe that Dibling and George have the potential to become top-level talents, and bringing in Maamma could limit their pathway to regular playing time.
If Everton manage to keep Grealish and add Wilson, a group of wide players that includes Iliman Ndiaye, Grealish, Wilson, George and Dibling would likely provide more than enough depth for the club heading into next season.