Everton are plotting a move to sign Charlie Cresswell once the January transfer window opens, according to Everton News. The former Leeds United starlet has emerged as one of the top young defenders in France's Ligue 1 since joining Toulouse in 2024.
The Toffees are likely to be targeting a number of key positions in January, including a new striker and a right-back.
However, Everton are also keeping tabs on Cresswell due to his impressive introduction to life in France.
Born in Lancashire, Cresswell is a product of the Leeds youth academy where he graduated and became a member of the first team squad.
Limited to just 14 appearances at first team level, the 23-year-old spent a season on loan with Millwall in the Championship but after failing to break into Daniel Farke's best XI, he completed his switch to France in June 2024.
Charlie Cresswell is Premier League ready
Charlie Cresswell
Since joining Toulouse, Cresswell has undoubtedly shown his credentials as a top-tier player in the making.
In 15 months since he completed the move, the defender has made 42 appearances for his new club, scoring six goals in the process.
According to FBref, Cresswell ranks in the top four percent in Europe for aerial duels won per 90 minutes compared to his fellow defenders. He's also in the top four percent of central defenders for non-penalty goals — a trait which undoubtedly appeals to David Moyes as a manager who emphasises the importance of set pieces.
His defensive stats are also impressive, with his blocks and clearances per 90 record putting him in the top 11 percent.
Everton's need for a central defender has only been strengthened following a setback in Jarrad Branthwaite's recovery from injury.
Branthwaite hasn't represented the Toffees since may and has been recovering from a hamstring injury. However, a complication in his road back to fitness means that he faces an extended spell on the sidelines.
As a result, the 23-year-old will undergo surgery with Everton currently relying on Michael Keane and James Tarkowski in the heart of their defence.
Cresswell may be unproven in the Premier League, but given his incredible stats with Toulouse and his powerful, leadership credentials he could prove to be a seamless fit into Moyes' plans at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.