Everton Are Planning To Sign This 29-Year-Old Midfielder On An Initial Loan In January: Is It The Right Move For The Toffees? | OneFootball

Everton’s recruitment team looks restless as another transfer window approaches. Their summer business brought optimism. Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall formed an impressive attacking link and lifted the club into the top half of the Premier League table, so far. Yet, even with that progress, people inside Goodison Park know the squad still lacks a commanding figure in central midfield. That belief should shape Everton’s early moves in the upcoming market. The club now assesses several options to strengthen their core.

Journalist Wayne Veysey reported through Football Insider that Everton have turned their attention to Kalvin Phillips ahead of the January transfer window. The 29-year-old recently returned to the pitch for Manchester City after nearly two years away from first-team action. However, Pep Guardiola does not see him in his long-term plans. The same report said Phillips plans to leave the Etihad in January, with a loan deal suiting most interested clubs. The report claims that the Tofffees genuinely want Phillips. They weigh his experience, cost, and immediate impact before deciding.

This pursuit follows a wider pattern at Goodison Park. Earlier reports revealed that Everton are exploring a January move for Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee. Everton are also competing hard to sign Mario Gila. These moves show how the club plans to strengthen both ends of the pitch.

Manager David Moyes has quietly reshaped the club’s transfer approach. He now focuses on Premier League-proven players who adapt quickly to his system. Phillips, with his mix of control, tactical awareness, and physical strength, fits the type of midfielder Everton missed earlier this season. Injuries disrupted their rhythm and balance, and Moyes now aims to restore stability.

Would Kalvin Phillips Be the Right Fit for the Toffees?

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – APRIL 02: Kalvin Phillips of Ipswich Town warms up prior to the Premier League match between AFC Bournemouth and Ipswich Town FC at Vitality Stadium on April 02, 2025 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)

The idea of signing Phillips tempts Moyes, but it still carries risk. The 29-year-old has struggled since he left Leeds United. Injuries and inconsistent form hit him hard during his spells at Manchester City, West Ham, and Ipswich Town. However, reports from last season said his loan at Ipswich helped him regain confidence and form. That run led him to make his first City appearance in 645 days this September. Everton will receive optimism from that short resurgence and will hope to have him back at his best.

Phillips still offers clear value. He defends strongly, passes well, and adjusts easily to tactical changes. Those qualities can add structure and discipline to Moyes’ midfield. He knows the league well and brings international experience. The Englishman stays calm under pressure and reads the game smartly.

Still, his fitness does raise concern. Everton cannot take the risk of another long-term absentee in such a demanding season. If they secure him on loan under reasonable financial terms, the move could make sense. Yet, it remains a calculated gamble. The reward looks high if Phillips stays fit and motivated, but his recent struggles push Everton to think carefully before they commit.