Everton news & talking points: Swap deals, Saudi rejections & right-backs
The transfer window at the Hill Dickinson waits for no man, and we had movement today in Everton news!
From verified squad additions to pundit reaction and fresh full-back targets, here is a complete summary of today’s coverage on ReadEverton:
Brennan Johnson arrives as Dwight McNeil departs
The major story of the day remains the official completion of the direct swap deal between Everton and Crystal Palace. Brennan Johnson has joined the Toffees on a four-year contract, providing David Moyes with direct pace and tactical flexibility across the front line.
In return, Dwight McNeil has completed his move to Selhurst Park. For a deeper breakdown of the trade-off, read our tactical analysis of what Everton gain in raw speed versus what they lose in set-piece delivery.
Pundits weigh in on the McNeil–Johnson swap
Over on talkSPORT, former players Jamie O’Hara and Gabby Agbonlahor pulled no punches reacting to the deal, with Agbonlahor controversially labeling Johnson “a myth.” Check out our response on how talkSPORT pundits took aim at Everton’s latest transfer business and why Moyes’ tactical plan could prove the critics wrong come opening day.
Iliman Ndiaye Turns Down Saudi Arabia
In major positive news for Everton’s attacking depth, Iliman Ndiaye has formally rejected a lucrative move to Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal. Despite significant financial incentives on the table, the Senegalese international has made it clear that his immediate future lies in the Premier League. Read the full details on how Ndiaye rejected Saudi billions to stay at Everton.
David Moyes Eyes Second Palace Raid for Daniel Muñoz
With the McNeil–Johnson deal concluded, Everton could return to Selhurst Park for a second summer signing. Read our exclusive report on how Everton eye a second Crystal Palace raid for right-back target Daniel Muñoz as David Moyes looks to personally drive a deal to fix the squad’s full-back dilemma.
Adam Aznou Commits to Toffees First-Team Push
Addressing full-back speculation on the left side, an update on 20-year-old defender Adam Aznou confirms he has no plans to leave on loan this summer. Read the full update on why Adam Aznou has ruled out a loan move to stay and fight for his place under David Moyes.
Live Transfer Tracker Updated
Finally, all of today’s fast-moving news has been compiled into our central transfer hub. Head over to the Everton 2026 summer transfer tracker: Every deal, live to check out every confirmed incoming, outgoing, and live target as recruitment enters its final stretch.
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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Everton’s frustrating summer as Moyes’ search for a right-back looks set to span the whole window
Everton’s frustrating summer as Moyes’ search for a right-back looks set to span the whole window
Everton 2026 summer transfer tracker: Every deal, live
Everton 2026 summer transfer tracker: Every deal, live