Report: Everton considering move for La Liga midfielder | OneFootball

Everton Transfer News: Pape Gueye and Mandela Keita on Toffees Midfield Shortlist

Everton’s summer rebuild is beginning to gather momentum, and while Hayden Hackney appears set to become the club’s first major arrival, attention is already turning towards strengthening the heart of midfield even further. According to reporting from TeamTalk, Everton are actively assessing multiple options as uncertainty continues to surround the future of Idrissa Gana Gueye.

With Gueye now officially a free agent following the expiry of his contract, Everton face another significant decision over one of their most influential performers. As TeamTalk notes, “Everton could be on the verge of a major midfield reshuffle as they prepare for life without Idrissa Gana Gueye.”

Hackney’s expected arrival addresses one area of David Moyes’ plans, but it appears unlikely to be the final piece of Everton’s midfield puzzle.

Pape Gueye Emerges as Genuine Everton Target

TeamTalk reports that Everton hold a genuine interest in Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye, the Senegal international who has enhanced his reputation during the ongoing World Cup.

His performances have certainly caught attention. As highlighted in the original report, he “has impressed for his country, particularly in a 5-0 group stage victory over Iraq, in which he scored two goals and provided an assist.”

Those displays add to an impressive domestic campaign in Spain, where the 27 year old produced five goals and two assists across 39 appearances for Villarreal.

Photo: IMAGO

Pape Gueye offers versatility that should appeal to Everton’s recruitment team. Comfortable shielding the defence or driving forward from midfield, he combines physicality with composure in possession, qualities that have become increasingly valuable in Premier League football.

Competition, however, is expected to be fierce. TeamTalk states that Crystal Palace, Brighton and Sunderland are all monitoring the situation, meaning Everton may need to move decisively if they wish to secure his signature.

One factor potentially working in Everton’s favour is their growing relationship with Villarreal following previous business between the clubs. That existing connection could prove useful if negotiations accelerate during the coming weeks.

Mandela Keita Also Being Closely Monitored

Alongside Gueye, another name gathering momentum is Parma midfielder Mandela Keita.

According to TeamTalk sources, Everton admire the Belgian international following an impressive campaign in Serie A, while Sky Sport Italia has reported discussions involving both Parma and the player’s representatives.

The report explains that “TEAMtalk sources indicate that while Everton are keen on Keita, nothing is advanced or imminent yet.”

Photo: IMAGO

Keita represents a slightly different profile. At 24, he offers long term development potential alongside experience gained in Italian football. His 40 appearances last season underline both his durability and importance to Parma.

Reports suggest Parma value him at around €20 million, although any eventual transfer fee could rise if Premier League interest continues to grow.

Midfield Rebuild Gathering Pace

Everton’s recruitment strategy appears increasingly clear.

Hackney looks ready to inject youth and creativity, while the club are simultaneously exploring experienced, athletic midfielders capable of replacing the influence of Idrissa Gana Gueye should contract talks ultimately fail.

TeamTalk also notes that “with Gueye’s future up in the air, fellow Senegal star Pape Gueye and Keita are two players to keep a very close eye on.”

That feels an accurate assessment.

Rather than rushing into one replacement, Everton appear to be assessing multiple profiles before committing significant investment. It is an approach that reflects careful planning rather than panic, especially during a summer that could define the early stages of David Moyes’ latest rebuild.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Everton supporters have waited long enough to see genuine planning in the transfer market, and this feels like exactly that. Hayden Hackney looks an exciting addition, but adding another midfielder of genuine quality would transform the complexion of this squad.

Pape Gueye is arguably the standout option. Anyone producing those numbers at the World Cup while already performing consistently in LaLiga deserves serious attention. Everton have lacked midfielders capable of breaking up play and then driving forward with purpose. Gueye appears to offer both.

Mandela Keita would also be an excellent signing. At 24, he fits the profile of a player who could grow alongside this Everton side for years rather than being another short term solution. Competition for places has been missing in midfield, and bringing in two energetic, athletic players would immediately raise standards.

Much still depends on Idrissa Gana Gueye. If an agreement can somehow be reached, many Evertonians would love to see him stay for another season. His leadership, professionalism and consistency remain hugely valuable. Yet the club also has to look forward.

This window increasingly feels like one built around sensible recruitment rather than expensive headlines. Hackney, Pape Gueye and Keita would represent three midfielders with different strengths, different ages and genuine resale value.

For once, Everton seem to be identifying players before a crisis develops, rather than reacting after one. If these deals can be completed, supporters have every reason to believe this midfield could become one of the strongest foundations the club has built in several seasons.