Everton are set to end their pursuit of Southampton winger Tyler Dibling, and that decision could actually impact Nottingham Forest.
Nottingham Forest are in the market for attacking reinforcements this summer transfer window and have already made some eye-catching additions.
Brazilian duo Igor Jesus and Jair Cunha have joined Forest, whilst Bologna talisman Dan Ndoye has completed a move to the City Ground, too.
Nuno Espirito Santo and his chiefs are focused on bringing in another creative player and Fulham’s Adama Traore has been linked to the Tricky Trees.
However, one of their rumoured targets could now be courted by the Toffees after their move for Dibling appears on the verge of collapsing.
James McAtee celebrates Erling Haaland's goal against Leicester City
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
Everton could try to sign Nottingham Forest target James McAtee after Tyler Dibling deal collapses
Everton have had three bids rejected for Dibling, and after Southampton’s latest demand of £50m with a 25% sell-on clause, they’re exploring other options.
Moyes could now use those funds to sign Manchester City’s £35m-rated playmaker James McAtee, who is of serious interest to Nottingham Forest.
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Forest have been in talks to sign McAtee for weeks, although it seems they’re trying to negotiate his price down to below £30m.
With Everton seemingly back in the picture, it may actually force Evangelos Marinakis’ hand to pay a premium for the England under-21 international. Otherwise, they risk missing out.
Everton could also reignite move for Malick Fofana
Considering Everton have had a £43m bid rejected for Dibling, it’s evident they have substantial funds to get a deal done elsewhere.
If it’s not McAtee, Moyes and his chiefs could turn to Lyon wide player Malick Fofana, who has also been heavily rumoured with a move to the East Midlands.
🚨🇧🇪 EXCL: Nottingham Forest have agreed deal with Olympique Lyon for Malick Fofana… but no agreement yet on player side.
Fofana, waiting for Champions League clubs with Chelsea still keen on the player.
Understand Bayern and Napoli have also called to make initial approach. pic.twitter.com/dp8XtwDP9x
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 1, 2025
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Forest presumably still have an agreement in place with Lyon, however, Fofana hasn’t agreed on personal terms yet.
Fofana wants Champions League football and is keen to wait for other opportunities that arise later in the window.
So, both Forest and Everton likely won’t be able to reach an agreement with the Belgium international until the very end of August, once he’s assessed all options.