Everton are reportedly preparing a move for Manchester United forward Ethan Wheatley following his loan spell at Bradford City.
The 20-year-old ended last season on loan in West Yorkshire after spending the first half of the campaign with Northampton Town.
He made 12 appearances for the Bantams, but failed to score and did not feature in either of their League One play-off semi-final showdowns with Bolton Wanderers.
Wheatley has since been linked with German outfit Schalke 04 and Dutch club SC Cambuur, but is still in the Manchester United ranks as it stands.
Ethan Wheatley made 12 appearances during his loan spell at Bradford City.placeholder image
Ethan Wheatley made 12 appearances during his loan spell at Bradford City. | Jonathan Gawthorpe
Ethan Wheatley linked with Everton after Bradford City loan spell
He has now been reported as being of interest to Everton, who are said to be preparing a proposal for the England Under-20s international.
Posting on X, reporter Fabrizio Romano said: “Everton are interested in Man United talented striker Ethan Wheatley. EFC preparing a proposal to make formal approach with Man United soon for the 20-year-old forward.”
The reported interest may come as a surprise to Bradford fans, who did not see Wheatley make the desired impact at Valley Parade.
Bradford City stint
He may have endured a goalless spell in West Yorkshire, but the frontman is seemingly still viewed as a player with a high ceiling.
In March, Wheatley drew praise from senior Bantams figure Antoni Sarcevic. The experienced playmaker said: “I still think Ethan is doing brilliantly for us.
Ethan Wheatley has made four senior appearances for Manchester United.placeholder image
Ethan Wheatley has made four senior appearances for Manchester United. | Stu Forster/Getty Images
“I know he’ll pride himself on goals but I think what he give us to us is really good. The goals will come if he keeps going.”
Wheatley is under contract at Old Trafford until 2028, therefore Everton would have to fork out a fee to land him on a permanent basis.