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Everton Eye £33m Midfielder: Should Moyes Pay The Premium?
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- Everton Eye £33m Midfielder: Should Moyes Pay The Premium?
Everton Eye £33m Midfielder: Should Moyes Pay The Premium?
Everton have made several changes to their midfield since Idrissa Gana Gueye left, with David Moyes looking to build a more balanced unit. Hayden Hackney arrived from Middlesbrough for a reported £16.5 million, while Christian Nørgaard joined from Arsenal for around £7 million. Merlin Röhl also arrived from Freiburg for £17 million, giving the manager more depth across central areas.
Those additions have improved Moyes' options, although Everton still have work to do after collecting 10 points from their opening eight Premier League matches. James Garner and Hackney have both contributed goals, including during the recent 3-1 Carabao Cup victory over Newcastle United . Their contributions offer encouragement, but neither removes the need for a midfielder who can sit in front of the defence, break up opposition attacks and protect the back four.
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Garner, contracted until 2030, remains an important part of Moyes' plans, while Hackney represents a longer-term investment with his deal running until 2031. Nørgaard brings valuable experience, but his contract expires in 2028. A specialist defensive midfielder would give the younger pair more freedom to contribute further up the pitch without leaving Everton exposed during transitions.
According to Goodison News, citing African outlet Africa Foot , Everton could revive their interest in Villarreal's Pape Gueye in January. The 27-year-old Senegal international attracted attention after the 2026 World Cup and has continued his good form in Spain, scoring three goals in 10 La Liga appearances while featuring in the Champions League.
Should Everton pay Villarreal's £33m asking price?
MADRID, SPAIN – OCTOBER 10: Pape Gueye of Villarreal CF in action during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Real Madrid and Villarreal CF at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on October 10, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
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Reports suggest Everton considered a £23.3 million offer during the summer, but Villarreal value the midfielder at approximately £33.3 million. That difference presents a significant decision for Angus Kinnear and the recruitment team.
From Everton's perspective, paying the additional £10 million could make sense. Gueye offers the physical presence and defensive discipline that would allow Garner and Hackney to contribute further up the pitch. His arrival wouldn't have to restrict Hackney's progress; an established holding midfielder could give the young Englishman more freedom to develop his attacking game. However, Everton must ensure the fee reflects Gueye's value to the team rather than simply meeting Villarreal's demands.
