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Goodison View: Three players Moyes could now sign as Everton end pursuit of Southampton gem

Everton manager David Moyes and Southampton forward Tyler Dibling

(Credit: Imago)

Kyrenia Shipillis

Tue 5 August 2025 12:45, UK

Everton will need to find a suitable alternative now that Tyler Dibling is not set to arrive at the Hill Dickinson Stadium this summer.

The Toffees have been determined to strengthen their squad this window and identified Dibling as a viable option. The Merseyside club were impressed with the maturity and potential shown by the 19-year-old on the pitch.

However, after seeing multiple bids rejected by Southampton, Everton are reportedly set to move on to alternative targets.

Southampton forward Tyler Dibling

Dibling is not expected to sign for Everton (Credit: Imago)

Zuriko Davitashvili – Saint-Etienne

The Toffees have been linked with a move for Georgian forward Zuriko Davitashvili, and there is every indication that he would be willing to arrive at the club this summer.

Davitashvili has refused to participate in Saint-Etienne’s pre-season fixtures against Paris FC and Cagliari, according to Footmercato.

23 March 2022: Davitashvili signs with Dinamo Batumi

2 September 2022: Davitashvili moves to Bordeaux on a one-year loan deal

11 July 2024: Saint-Etienne sign Davitashvili on a four-year contract

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It is understood that the Ligue 2 club have no intention of selling their best players, no matter what bids are tabled, as they aim for immediate promotion. This has irritated the winger, who is open to leaving the French club.

Therefore, if the Blues decide on Davitashvili as an alternative to Dibling, they may have to make an offer too good to refuse.

Takefusa Kubo – Real Sociedad

As reported by Fabrizio Romano (29 July), Everton have enquired about signing Takefusa Kubo this summer.

Like Dibling, the Japanese international plays as a left winger but can also play as an attacking midfielder. This versatility would offer David Moyes several options when lining up next season.

While there will be questions surrounding his ability to adapt to the Premier League, Kubo is a talent too good for Everton to pass on.

🚨🔵 EXCL: Everton keep waiting for Malick Fofana’s final decision on future as his priority is UCL football…

…meanwhile, #EFC management made enquiries for both Assane Diao (Como already turned down a bid this summer) and Takefusa Kubo. pic.twitter.com/vsioW23SsU

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 29, 2025

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Assane Diao – Como

The Toffees are reportedly in hot pursuit of Assane Diao, having already tabled a £38.7million bid that was rejected by Como.

The Senegal international primarily plays as a left winger but is also comfortable on the right wing and has had stints as a centre-forward.

Season Appearances Goals Assists

2024/25 34 10 4

Diao’s stats last season

Last season, he impressed at Como, netting 10 goals and providing four assists in 34 appearances. With a keener eye for goal and greater attacking instinct than Dibling, Southampton’s rejection could be a blessing in disguise for Everton.

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