Everton are poised to pounce for an "excellent" Premier League midfielder, who is now looking increasingly likely to leave his club this summer, according to a report.
Toffees set sights on new midfielder
It is set to be a summer of change for the Toffees, with the move to Bramley-Moore Dock to take place prior to the start of the 2025-26 campaign, while David Moyes is also looking to upgrade his squad in a number of different positions.
Having flirted with relegation over the past few seasons, it is little wonder Moyes is eyeing upgrades in several areas, with Leeds United's Junior Firpo among the targets at left-back, while Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap could be brought in to provide more attacking firepower.
The Merseysiders are also looking to upgrade their options in the engine room, with an offer now being prepared for Lille central midfielder Angel Gomes, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer.
Everton - Goodison Park Related
[Everton set to cut ties with "outstanding" 93 career-goal ace in summer exit](https://www.footballfancast.com/everton-right-back-ashley-young-set-to-leave-end-of-contract-this-summer/ "Everton set to cut ties with "outstanding" 93 career-goal ace in summer exit")
He's been a valiant servant at Goodison Park...
However, amid widespread interest in Gomes, it could be difficult to get a deal over the line, and a different central midfielder has now entered the frame as a potential summer target.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Everton are now poised to pounce for Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff, who is looking increasingly likely to exit St. James' Park this summer, with the Magpies prepared to sanction a departure for just £12m.
Newcastle United's Sean Longstaff in action with Bromley's Jude Arthurs
Eddie Howe's side are eager to cash-in on Longstaff, with his contract set to expire in 2026, potentially opening the door for a move to Merseyside, having been identified as a strong target by the Toffees.
Moyes is looking to overhaul his squad this summer, and wants to bring in players with Premier League experience, but there could be fierce competition for the midfielder, with Manchester United, Leeds United and teams in Scotland also keen.
"Excellent" Longstaff could be solid signing for Toffees
As the season has progressed, the Englishman has started to play more of a sporadic role, often being limited to appearances off the bench, but he has impressed Howe in the past, with the manager previously describing him as "excellent".
With Moyes keen on proven Premier League players, the 27-year-old also fits the bill in that regard, having made 171 appearances in the top flight, picking up ten goals and nine assists.
Not only is the central midfielder capable of posing an attacking threat, but he is also willing to pitch in defensively, as showcased by his performance on some key metrics over the past year.
Statistic Average per 90
Touches (Att pen) 2.33 (86th percentile)
Tackles 2.61 (77th percentile)
Blocks 1.77 (92nd percentile)
While Longstaff is unlikely to be the most exciting addition for Everton this summer, there is every sign the Newcastle midfielder could be a solid addition to Moyes' squad.