Everton are already eyeing players for the January transfer window, and David Moyes could move for Toulouse star Charlie Cresswell.
David Moyes can feel pretty comfortable with his options in the heart of Everton’s defence.
James Tarkowski is staying put, Michael Keane has been in strong form, and Jake O’Brien should be a central defender in the future.
Jarrad Branthwaite is currently out injured, but Everton will expect interest in the England international in 2026.
Everton may consider defensive targets just in case Branthwaite does leave, with one target emerging.
England under-21 international Charlie Cresswell.
Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images
David Moyes has personal connection to Everton target Charlie Cresswell
Everton are eyeing Charlie Cresswell, as the Toulouse defender continues to impress in Ligue 1.
Cresswell scored in Toulouse’s 4-0 win over Metz on Sunday and has impressed since signing from Leeds United in 2024.
Everton may look to bring Cresswell back to England, and Moyes has a personal connection to the defender.
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Moyes actually signed Cresswell’s father, Richard, during his time as Preston North End manager.
Moyes attempted to sign Cresswell senior from York City in 1999, but a £500,000 bid was rejected, as noted by York Press.
Cresswell instead joined Sheffield Wednesday and then Leicester City, before Moyes finally landed his man in 2001.
The striker played 47 times under Moyes at PNE, scoring 13 times as he took on an important role at Deepdale.
Moyes left PNE for Everton in 2002, but that long-term pursuit of Cresswell paid off for North End as he continued to score goals over the next three years.
Richard Cresswell now serves as Charlie Cresswell’s agent
That connection could be important when it comes to winning the race for Cresswell junior’s signature.
Cresswell is represented by his father, meaning he will have a key role in any potential transfer.
The defender will have plenty of suitors, but his father – and agent – will be able to speak highly of Moyes as a manager.
That is something Everton may look to utilise in 2026, with Cresswell potentially set to follow in his father’s footsteps by signing for Moyes.