Everton Football Club is preparing for a significant transition as Jack Grealish is expected to return to Manchester City at the end of the season. The 30-year-old midfielder has made a notable impact during his season-long loan at Everton, but his future remains uncertain. Manager David Moyes has previously indicated reluctance to meet the £50 million buyout clause for Grealish, particularly considering his age, which may prompt the club to explore alternative options.
With Grealish’s departure looming, Everton must plan for the future. Iliman Ndiaye, currently impressing at Hill Dickinson Stadium, is likely to attract interest from top clubs, intensifying the urgency for Everton to solidify their squad. Moyes praised Grealish’s contributions, stating, “The biggest compliment I can say about Jack is that he’s even better than I thought he was.”
Emerging Transfer Targets for Everton
In light of the potential exit of Grealish, reports suggest that Everton has turned its attention to Zuriko Davitashvili, a winger from Saint-Etienne. The 24-year-old Georgian international has garnered attention for his performances, having scored nine goals and provided eight assists in 33 Ligue 1 appearances last season. While Saint-Etienne is not expected to entertain offers for Davitashvili during the January transfer window, a move could be in the works for next summer.
The Friedkin Group, Everton’s ownership, is under pressure to ensure the club remains competitive. They have faced challenges this season, with inconsistent performances highlighting a lack of depth in the squad. Moyes has expressed frustration with some players, including Tyler Dibling, whom he substituted at halftime during a recent 4-2 defeat against Brentford on January 4, 2026. Dibling, signed for £42 million last summer, has struggled to meet expectations, further complicating Everton’s situation.
The club’s management is aware that they need to make strategic investments in the transfer market to maintain their quality and ambition. Despite the current setbacks, there is determination within the organization to enhance the squad ahead of next season.
As the transfer window approaches, the situation surrounding Grealish will undoubtedly influence Everton’s strategy. The club’s ability to secure promising talent like Davitashvili could play a crucial role in their plans to remain competitive in the Premier League. The upcoming months will be critical for the Toffees as they navigate these changes and aim for a stronger future on the pitch.
