adminKyle Walker Agrees Deal to Join Everton for 2025/26 Season
In a significant move that could reshape Everton’s defensive line, veteran full-back Kyle Walker has reportedly agreed to join the Merseyside club for the 2025/26 Premier League season. As reported by The Sun, the 34-year-old defender is set to leave Manchester City following a highly decorated stint and a recent loan spell at AC Milan. His next destination? Everton’s newly christened Hill Dickinson Stadium, under the guidance of returning manager David Moyes.
Walker’s Manchester City Exit: A New Chapter
Walker’s decision to leave Manchester City marks the end of an illustrious chapter in English football. The England international, earning a hefty £180,000 per week, has enjoyed immense success at City. Since joining from Tottenham Hotspur in 2017, he’s collected six Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League trophy, and numerous domestic cups, cementing his legacy as one of the most consistent and versatile right-backs of his generation.
Despite his pedigree, the 2024/25 season saw Walker shipped out on loan to AC Milan, where he maintained high performance levels in Serie A. According to WhoScored, he made 47 appearances across club and country, accumulating 3,032 minutes, with defensive stats including 1.2 tackles, 0.3 blocks, 0.5 interceptions, and 1.1 clearances per game.
With Pep Guardiola now reshaping City’s aging core, and Walker expressing a desire for a “new challenge”, both sides agreed a permanent move was the best path forward.
Everton’s Rebuild Under Moyes and the Friedkin Group
Walker’s impending arrival at Everton is part of a larger squad overhaul under returning boss David Moyes. Having rejoined the Toffees with the backing of new owners, The Friedkin Group, Moyes has been given license to revamp a team that’s struggled for stability in recent seasons.
One of Moyes’ first acts was to let veteran Ashley Young leave at the end of his contract. Bringing in Walker is seen as an upgrade both in terms of experience and physical output, with the former Spurs star expected to slot straight into the starting eleven. His leadership qualities, dressing room presence, and ability to mentor younger players could prove vital for a squad looking to re-establish itself in the top half of the Premier League.
Crucially, Walker is still targeting a spot in the England squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be led by Thomas Tuchel following Gareth Southgate’s departure. For Walker, regular football in the Premier League remains a non-negotiable, and Everton’s offer of consistent minutes and a prominent role sealed the deal.
The Deal Structure: Loan or Permanent?
While personal terms between Walker and Everton have been finalized, a few administrative steps remain. Manchester City and Everton are yet to officially confirm the transfer structure—it could take the form of a 12-month loan deal, allowing Walker to see out the remainder of his City contract. This arrangement would be cost-effective for Everton, sparing them a transfer fee while still securing a top-level defender.
Although a permanent move is also on the table, the loan option seems the most likely, particularly with all parties in alignment about the benefits of a clean transition. Walker’s high wages could present a slight stumbling block, but Moyes is confident of reaching a suitable financial arrangement.
Why Everton?
Everton’s offer appealed to Walker for a multitude of reasons. Unlike Fulham—who were also interested but pulled out due to financial constraints—Everton presented a clear vision, supported by ownership investment, and provided Walker with the opportunity to remain competitive at the highest level.
The club’s move to the state-of-the-art Hill Dickinson Stadium is a symbol of its ambitions, and Walker is reportedly excited by the prospect of being a foundational part of this new era. Moreover, Moyes’ reputation for improving veteran players and maximizing defensive organization was a significant draw for Walker, who is keen to extend his playing career with purpose.
Walker’s Continued Value: More Than Just Experience
Though entering the twilight of his career, Kyle Walker continues to offer a rare blend of pace, tactical intelligence, and adaptability. Whether deployed as a traditional right-back, a wing-back, or even a right-sided centre-back in a back three, his versatility gives Moyes flexibility in shaping his system.
Additionally, Walker’s ability to neutralize some of the Premier League’s fastest wingers remains virtually unmatched. Even during his stint at Milan, he demonstrated his endurance and awareness, attributes that Everton’s younger defenders can learn from.
Beyond his defensive prowess, Walker has also proven himself as an effective ball carrier and transition player—traits that will be vital for Everton, particularly against the top-tier clubs where counterattacking opportunities are limited but critical.
What This Means for Everton Going Forward
Walker’s expected arrival signals a changing of the guard at Everton, which has suffered from inconsistency and a revolving door of managers and signings in recent seasons. The deal also highlights a return to strategic recruitment, focusing on experience, leadership, and reliability rather than short-term gambles.
With backing from The Friedkin Group, Moyes is expected to target reinforcements across the pitch, including central midfield and forward areas. Walker’s acquisition could be the spark needed to attract other proven names who might have previously overlooked Everton due to its lack of recent success.
Moreover, his presence could elevate the standards in training and matchday preparation, fostering a more professional and competitive atmosphere within the squad.
Looking Ahead: England Hopes and Legacy Considerations
For Kyle Walker, this move is not just about winding down his career; it’s a calculated step to remain visible to England selectors ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Given his enduring fitness and deep well of international experience, Walker has a realistic shot at securing one last major tournament appearance.
At the same time, this transfer adds another chapter to a storied Premier League career, one that has seen Walker evolve from a promising youngster at Sheffield United to one of the best right-backs in the world.
His decision to choose Everton over more comfortable or lucrative options speaks to his ambition, professionalism, and hunger to keep performing at the highest level.
Final Word: With this deal nearly over the line, Everton fans can look forward to welcoming a player who has defined a generation of English full-backs. Kyle Walker’s arrival may not only shore up the Toffees’ defense but also mark the beginning of a more focused and ambitious era under David Moyes.
Godwin Obaje
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