Everton are still looking for their first new face of the summer, but an update today from Fabrizio Romano is concerning.
Everton have signed Carlos Alcaraz on a permanent deal, but he does not technically class as a new face as he was here on loan.
The focus has mainly been on players leaving the club.
And there was big news yesterday, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin becoming the latest departure at Everton.
The striker is moving on after nine years at the club.
Everton could really do with getting some new signings in now, with pre-season now far away.
And one player Everton looked well on course to sign was Kenny Tete. Everton had a verbal agreement with Tete, whose current contract at Fulham is expiring after today.
But Fulham then presented Tete with an improved offer.
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After a few days of silence, Fabrizio Romano has now provided an update on the full-back.
Kenny Tete now set to remain at Fulham in big blow to Everton
Kenny Tete listens to music.
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Tete was seen by many as a smart signing by Everton.
The star has been in the Premier League for a few years, and is widely regarded as a steady and consistent player.
Fulham fans were concerned over the reports of Everton’s agreement with Tete, which further indicated the Toffees were making a good move.
But now, it looks like Tete could actually be staying put.
🚨⚪️⚫️ Understand Fulham are now closing in on the agreement with Kenny Tete over new contract.
Formal steps still needed but Fulham now confident after Everton proposal almost accepted. pic.twitter.com/G6hZyLj0mT
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 30, 2025
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Fabrizio Romano reported this afternoon: “Understand Fulham are now closing in on the agreement with Kenny Tete over new contract.
“Formal steps still needed but Fulham now confident after Everton proposal almost accepted.”
Romano had previously stated that Everton had a verbal agreement with Tete for him to sign as a free agent, but seemingly the Toffees hopes are now rapidly fading.
Everton now have a problem amid fading hopes over Tete
It looks as though Everton have now failed to land Tete, and that is a big blow for David Moyes.
And it is worth noting that the Toffees failing to secure their main target could now jeopardise their efforts to land alternatives.
David Moyes with head in hands during Nottingham Forest vs Everton.
Photo by DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images
If Everton go after a player with a similar level of experience and ability, then that player may not fancy a move knowing they were essentially second choice.
Kyle Walker-Peters is a player Everton have looked at, but a deal for him could now be difficult for that reason.
He may be unlikely to pick Everton, knowing a number of other clubs want to secure his services.