Everton experienced a mixed campaign last season, finishing 13th in the Premier League.
The Toffees struggled massively in the first half under Sean Dyche, slipping to 16th and just a point above the relegation zone.
Dyche was eventually sacked and replaced by David Moyes, who sparked a turnaround, steering the club clear of relegation danger, guiding them to a 13th-place finish.
Moyes will now be hoping to bolster the Everton squad this summer, and among the players he is keen on signing is a former Man United midfielder.
David Moyes thanking the Everton fans after Southampton game.
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images
Moyes wants to sign Brazilian midfielder Fred, who currently plays for Turkish side Fenerbahce under Jose Mourinho.
According to the Turkish outlet Sabah, Everton have been in contact with the player’s representatives over a potential move.
Signing him will not be straightforward though. Jose Mourinho rates him highly and the club will not be keen on selling him unless a club makes a sizeable offer.
It is reported that the Turkish side will not expect a fee below £12.5m (€15m).
Moyes is keen on the Brazilian as a key midfield addition, but Everton’s Financial Fair Play limitations could make the deal difficult due to the asking price.
This is not the first time he has shown interest in signing Fred. Moyes also tried to sign him at West Ham in 2023.
Fred’s spell at Manchester United
Fred joined Manchester United in June 2018 for around £47 million on a five-year deal, coming in with high expectations.
However, he struggled initially, putting in inconsistent performances, especially under Jose Mourinho.
He gradually settled, establishing a partnership with Scott McTominay in the middle of the pitch, impressing fans with the performances who dubbed their partnership as ‘McFred’.
In the 2022–23 season, under Erik ten Hag, Fred reached his peak form, scoring against Barcelona in the Europa League and playing a key role in United’s League Cup win.
Despite a contract extension until 2024, he left the club in August 2023 after five years and 213 appearances, during which he scored 14 goals and assisted another 19.