Everton Target Prolific Brazilian Forward Yuri Alberto as Moyes Plans Squad Overhaul

Everton Football Club is preparing for a transformative summer transfer window as the Merseyside team looks to rebuild under new ownership. The Friedkin Group, who acquired the club during the 2024/25 season, is eager to inject fresh talent into the squad by backing new manager David Moyes with substantial financial support. One of their top priorities is to secure a high-caliber striker—and Brazilian sensation Yuri Alberto has emerged as a prominent target.

Ambitious Plans Under New Ownership

After years of financial instability, underwhelming performances, and near brushes with relegation, Everton’s ownership change has offered a breath of fresh air. The Friedkin Group, best known for their involvement with AS Roma, has vowed to restore Everton’s prestige both in the Premier League and beyond. One of their earliest and most critical steps in this process was the appointment of David Moyes, returning for a second spell with the club he once took to regular top-half finishes.

Now, with strategic backing and a clear vision, Moyes has been handed the reins to reshape Everton’s squad. Central to this rebuild is strengthening the attacking line, particularly with uncertainties surrounding current forwards Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Beto.

The Yuri Alberto Pursuit

According to reports from Spanish outlet AS, Everton have identified 23-year-old Brazilian striker Yuri Alberto as a primary target to lead the line for the coming seasons. Alberto, currently playing for Corinthians in Brazil, has made a name for himself as one of the most prolific young forwards in world football. Since joining the club in 2022, he has scored 70 goals in 183 appearances—a remarkable record for a player still early in his career.

Alberto’s performances haven’t gone unnoticed, and multiple European clubs have taken an interest in securing his services. Atletico Madrid is believed to be one of the frontrunners in the race. However, Everton may hold an advantage in offering Alberto regular first-team football, something Atletico cannot guarantee due to the depth of their attacking options.

A Natural Successor

With Calvert-Lewin reportedly exploring opportunities away from Goodison Park and Beto attracting interest from clubs across the Premier League and Europe, Everton is keen to avoid being left short-handed. Moyes is determined to bring in a dynamic, goal-hungry forward who can fit into his high-intensity system—and Yuri Alberto fits the bill.

The Brazilian international, who is under contract with Corinthians, has been described by South American analysts as “one of the best performing forwards in world football.” In the 2024/25 season alone, Alberto has played 35 games, scoring 13 goals and providing one assist in just under 2,400 minutes of football. While his assists tally may seem modest, his movement, intelligence, and poaching instincts have made him a standout finisher.

Since January 2024, he has contributed to 56 goals (45 goals and 11 assists) in just 92 matches, positioning him as the most prolific Under-23 striker globally during that period. Corinthians have reportedly set his asking price at just over £17 million—a fee that is well within Everton’s budget, particularly with new investment in the club.

Tactical Fit at Everton

Yuri Alberto brings a diverse skill set that would complement David Moyes’ tactical philosophy. While he is known primarily for his goal-scoring abilities, Alberto also exhibits intelligent off-the-ball movement, a high work rate, and technical skills that allow him to link up effectively with midfielders and wide players. His ability to press from the front aligns with Moyes’ preference for energetic and disciplined forward play.

If signed, Alberto could serve as a natural focal point for Everton’s attacking transitions. He has shown an impressive knack for finding space in the final third and exploiting defensive gaps. This adaptability could allow him to form an effective partnership with either a second striker or an attacking midfielder—depending on how Moyes shapes his frontline.

Competition and Alternatives

Despite Everton’s serious interest, securing Alberto will be no easy task. Atletico Madrid remain a looming threat, offering the allure of Champions League football and a history of success under Diego Simeone. However, reports suggest that Alberto’s desire for consistent first-team football could sway the decision in Everton’s favor.

Meanwhile, Everton is not putting all their eggs in one basket. The club is also monitoring several other striker options, including Newcastle’s Callum Wilson—a seasoned Premier League veteran with a track record of scoring. Additionally, Everton scouts have been keeping a close eye on Villarreal’s Thierno Barry, a talented French Under-21 international who has been making waves in La Liga.

This multi-target approach shows that Everton is intent on solving their striker dilemma one way or another. The club is aiming to ensure it has adequate depth and competition in the squad, especially given the physically demanding nature of the Premier League.

Fans React to the News

The news of Yuri Alberto being on Everton’s radar has generated lively debate among fans. Some supporters on online forums and social media have expressed enthusiasm about signing a young, dynamic striker with a strong goal-scoring pedigree. Others have urged caution, suggesting that the Brazilian may need time to adapt to the physicality and pace of English football.

One fan commented, “I’d prefer the German guy—he’s proven in a competitive league. But I’d still take the Brazilian. Maybe start him on loan with an option to buy.” Another countered, “The German has no pace. We may as well keep Beto if that’s the case. We need someone fast and strong up front.”

The split opinions highlight the stakes involved in this transfer window. Getting the striker signing right could be pivotal to Everton’s ambitions of climbing back into the top half of the Premier League table.

Looking Ahead

As the summer transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on Goodison Park to see how David Moyes and The Friedkin Group shape the future of Everton. Bringing in Yuri Alberto would not only signal a statement of intent but also provide a youthful, energetic edge to an attack that has struggled for consistency in recent seasons.

If Everton can finalize the deal ahead of their European competitors, it may mark the beginning of a bold new era for the blue half of Merseyside. For now, fans will watch with anticipation as negotiations unfold.

Sources: Transfermarkt (Stats as of June 21, 2025), AS (Spain), Fan commentary from GiveMeSport community thread.