Godwin ObajeEverton Plot Audacious Move for Manchester City Duo Grealish and McAtee
Everton are eyeing an ambitious double swoop for Manchester City pair Jack Grealish and James McAtee, with David Moyes set to take an active role in a pivotal summer of recruitment at Goodison Park.
The Toffees, under the returning stewardship of Moyes, are looking to reshape a squad that narrowly avoided relegation in successive seasons. Now, with a more stable platform and fresh leadership, the club is aiming higher — and they’ve identified two high-profile targets to spearhead that shift.
According to i News, Moyes is “leading the recruitment charge from the front”, with strategic support from Nick Hammond and Angus Kinnear. The trio are expected to drive a proactive and inventive approach to the summer window, which will see Everton lean heavily on the loan market — a space where they can maximise value while working within financial constraints.
At the top of the wishlist is Grealish — City’s £100 million marquee signing — who endured a difficult campaign in Manchester. The 28-year-old managed just three goals in 32 appearances across all competitions during a frustrating season for Pep Guardiola’s side, who failed to lift silverware for the first time since 2016–17.
The report suggests Everton hold an “understandable interest” in the England international, though any approach remains tentative due to the complexities surrounding Grealish’s salary — a reported £315,000 a week — and the uncertain stance of City following their qualification for next season’s Champions League. As it stands, the move is considered to be on the “back burner” while the situation evolves.
Still, Grealish could be made available for a loan if City decide to refresh their attacking options — with Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders among the players expected to arrive at the Etihad this summer. Should that happen, Everton would be among the clubs looking to capitalise.
Grealish’s numbers this past season paint a stark picture. He ranked just 15th in City’s squad for appearances (20), contributed only one assist, and averaged 1.2 key passes per game. His shooting (0.8 per game) and dribbling (0.7) stats placed him 12th and 7th respectively within the squad, while his average match rating sat at 6.44 — 19th in the team. It’s a far cry from the form that once made him one of the league’s most dynamic forwards.
By contrast, James McAtee represents a more attainable target. The 21-year-old midfielder has impressed in flashes but is likely to face increased competition for minutes next season with new signings incoming. Everton are believed to be among several clubs vying for his signature, either on a permanent basis or a season-long loan.
Both players fit the mould of what Everton hope to achieve — a blend of proven Premier League talent and youthful promise. If they can land even one of the two, it would be a statement of intent. But if Moyes and his team can pull off both deals, it could be a transformative window at Goodison Park.
Godwin Obaje
