Everton are now in pole position to sign Genoa star Brooke Norton-Cuffy, and they are set to hold formal talks.
The former Millwall man is a 14-cap England U21 international, and made 40 appearances for the Lions during the 2023-24 Championship season, which earned him a move to Genoa, where he has become a first-team regular.
In the 2025-26 campaign, the London-born defender made 27 Serie A appearances, displaying his ability going forward by creating 22 chances and averaging 1.3 successful dribbles per 90, the third-highest number in the Genoa squad.
That aligns with scout Ben Mattinson's assessment of the full-back, as he has been lauded as an "insane carrier" by the Como scout, who also likened him to Chelsea star Reece James.
Brooke Norton-Cuffy for Genoa
The Toffees could do with signing a new right-back, following Seamus Coleman's departure, and Norton-Cuffy has seemingly emerged as a major target.
Everton set for talks to sign Brooke Norton-Cuffy
According to a report from GenoaOggi (via Sport Witness), Everton are set to hold formal talks to secure the Genoa star's signature, and they are now leading the race, despite rival interest from Fulham.
A deal could be possible for just €15m (£13m), which means the former Millwall star could be a relatively low-cost addition to David Moyes' squad.
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Everton ramping up pursuit of new full-back
With Coleman leaving and Patterson struggling to make an impact, Everton have been ramping up their pursuit of a full-back in recent weeks, and Tottenham Hotspur's Djed Spence has emerged as one of their top targets.
The England World Cup star is capable of playing on both sides of the defence, and should the Merseysiders secure his signature, he could compete for Jake O'Brien's spot in the starting XI.
jake-o'brien
O'Brien, who is a centre-back by trade, was deployed on the right last season, and racked up 3,124 minutes of game time in the Premier League, but he may want to return to his natural position.
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