Everton Are in the Race for This Manchester City Star: Do the Toffees Need Him? | OneFootball

Everton continue to assess options that could provide strength and flexibility in their defence, especially as the season grows more demanding and injuries begin to influence selection decisions. They require footballers who can step into multiple zones across the back line, handle pressure on the ball, and maintain composure in tight phases. That need has made several names across the league more interesting, particularly those with experience at a high competitive level.

Everton want to sign Nathan Aké

This brings us to the latest news brought forward by journalist Fraser Fletcher that Nathan Aké has emerged as a leading consideration, and the report also indicates that Everton, Fulham, and Crystal Palace have all expressed interest. Manchester City have kept Aké in their squad since 2020 after signing him from Bournemouth for a significant fee, but he has rarely enjoyed an extended run as an automatic starter.

The Dutchman has performed well whenever called upon, covering both centre-back and left-back roles, and he has made more than 150 appearances for the current champions. However, his involvement has decreased recently, which has sparked discussions about a potential winter move.

The report suggests that the Manchester City defender is open to a departure in January, and the club expect the fee to stand near £25 million. Everton would value his calmness and versatility, though competition for his signature is likely to remain strong.

Do the Toffees need him?

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JUNE 22: Nathan Ake #6 of Manchester City warms up prior to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group G match between Manchester City FC and Al Ain FC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 22, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Aké’s versatility makes him an appealing option for a side that wants compactness and clarity in defensive roles. The 30-year-old can play centrally or pull wider on the left, and that flexibility gives a manager the ability to change formations during matches without major disruption.

However, his comfort in possession and his habit of building calmly from the back require a setup that allows him to play in measured phases rather than simply clearing lines.

Moyes tends to prefer quick decisions and direct progression, so Aké would need a system that grants him a bit more freedom to settle play. Even so, his awareness, timing in duels, and composure under pressure match the demands of a manager who values defensive security.

Everton must sign another centre-back soon, as Tarkowski and Keane have moved past their peak years, and Branthwaite