Everton news & talking points – Johnston, Molina, Nørgaard and Ndiaye
The summer rebuild continued to dominate the Everton news conversation today, with recruitment, squad balance and the relationship between the club and supporters among the main talking points.
David Moyes’ side are now entering the final stage of their preparations for the new Premier League campaign, with attention increasingly turning towards the areas Everton hope to strengthen before the transfer window closes.
Here are the main Everton talking points from today’s coverage.
🔵 Everton’s search for a right-back continues
The right-back position remains one of those key areas Everton are looking to address, with many names now being linked as the club searches for a long-term solution.
Celtic’s Alistair Johnston remains one of the players under consideration, with the Canada international viewed as a profile that suits Moyes’ demands.
Johnston has built a reputation as a reliable defender who can contribute at both ends of the pitch, while his experience at international level adds to his appeal.
However, Everton are not focusing on just one option.
Ridle Baku has also emerged as another player being assessed, offering versatility after spending much of his career operating as both a right-back and a more advanced player.
And the latest name to enter the discussion is Atlético Madrid defender Nahuel Molina.
The Argentinian international represents a different profile — an experienced player who has competed at the highest level, including winning the World Cup in 2022 — and would bring significant pedigree if a deal could be explored.
But the theme behind all three names is clear: the Toffees want to find a dependable long-term option on the right side of defence following the departure of Seamus Coleman.
🟢 Christian Nørgaard move edges closer
They are also closing in on another important addition, with Christian Nørgaard completing his medical ahead of a move from Arsenal.
The Danish international is expected to join after Everton agreed a deal with the Gunners, bringing valuable Premier League experience to Moyes’ midfield.
Nørgaard established himself as a key figure during his time at Brentford before moving to Arsenal, where opportunities were more limited.
At Everton, he is expected to provide something slightly different to some of the club’s younger midfield options — offering leadership, defensive awareness and experience in a key position.
His arrival would continue the balance Everton have looked to achieve this summer, combining younger players with experienced pros capable of making an immediate impact.
🟡 Iliman Ndiaye returns to Everton training
Some positive news for Everton supporters as Iliman Ndiaye returned to pre-season training.
The Senegal international has become one of the club’s most important attacking players, and his return gives Moyes another significant option ahead of the new campaign.
Ndiaye’s first two seasons at Everton showed the creativity and unpredictability he can bring to the team, and supporters will hope he can build on that foundation (and hang around!).
With the season approaching, having key players available and integrated into the squad will be an important part of Everton’s preparations.
💬 FAB response highlights supporter concerns and conversations
Away from transfer discussions, another talking point from Tuesday centred on the response from the Everton Fan Advisory Board to the disparity between the treatment of the Toffees and Chelsea.
The piece also reflected wider supporter concerns around Premier League communication, transparency and also the direction of the club under The Friedkin Group.
Since the ownership change, Everton have entered a new era both on and off the pitch, with fans closely following decisions around recruitment, strategy and the long-term vision for the club.
The relationship between Everton and Evertonians remains a significant part of the club’s identity, and continued dialogue between both sides will be important as the rebuild progresses.
🔵 Alistair Johnston: Celtic defender remains among the right-back options being considered by Everton.
🔵 Ridle Baku: Another versatile full-back profile being assessed as the club searches for reinforcements.
🔵 Nahuel Molina: Atlético Madrid defender enters the conversation as Everton continue exploring options.
🟢 Christian Nørgaard: Medical completed ahead of expected move from Arsenal.
🟡 Iliman Ndiaye: Forward returns to training ahead of the new season.
💬 FAB response: Supporter communication and the club’s future direction remain key discussion points.
Everton’s summer work is entering an important phase, with recruitment decisions and squad preparation now moving closer to the start of the new campaign.
Gary is editor for ReadEverton. He has many years experience of sports writing behind him after deciding (belatedly) that the world of accountancy wasn't for him. His work has been featured on (among many others) BBC Sport and The Metro. He has written on many sports, but considers himself an expert in football and F1. When not writing and editing he likes to go to the cinema and sip a lovely cold pint of Guinness (not always at the same time).
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