David Moyes
(Credit: Imago)
Rahul Lakhani
Tue 20 May 2025 8:10, UK
Everton could look to strengthen their squad in all positions this summer, with a new era already getting underway days after leaving Goodison Park behind.
The Toffees are set for a massive rebuild as they move into the Hill Dickinson Stadium, and there will be plenty of changes on the pitch too.
Everton need to strengthen in several positions as a number of players are out of contract, with Michael Keane one of those who could depart.
David Moyes looks to have already found a possible replacement, with Nantes wonder Nathan Zeze.
Michael Keane
Michael Keane will need to be replaced this summer (Credit: Imago)
Everton ready quick Zeze transfer
Moyes has now set his sights on teenage centre-back Zeze, who currently plays for French side FC Nantes.
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Zeze has enjoyed a strong breakthrough into the first team over the past two seasons, and the 19-year-old has 35 senior appearances to his name.
French newspaper Ouest France has reported in its print edition (May 20, page 19) that several clubs, including Aston Villa and Everton, are keen on him.
Stat Zeze
Appearances 19
Goals 1
Yellow cards 6
Nathan Zeze this season
Bournemouth have already made a verbal offer of around £16.8 million to Nantes for the defender, who is also wanted by RB Leipzig, FC Como and Inter Milan.
Nantes’ financial troubles mean that they need to raise £33.6 million this summer through sales, and their prize asset could be available at a cut price, if clubs move quickly enough.
David Moyes
David Moyes wants new defenders in the summer. (Credit: Imago)
Zeze could reinforce Everton defence
Everton need to add some younger blood to their squad, and particularly in defence.
While Jarrad Branthwaite is a long-term option, both James Tarkowski and Keane are in their thirties, and eventual replacements for both are necessary.
Zeze could arrive as a prospect for the future as well as an option who can make a difference next season, bursting onto the big stage.
Already tall and commanding, he would add more height to the middle of the Everton defence than Tarkowski, and is ranked as one of the best tacklers in his position in Europe by FBRef.
Everton would have to beat a lot of clubs to Zeze’s signature, but they may be able to offer him more game time than the likes of Villa or Milan, and this could sway the Frenchman’s decision over his future.
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