Everton could make 'quality' Champions League attacker their 'first signing' under the Friedkin Group

Everton could look to make their first signing under the Friedkin Group in the January window, according to the latest reports.

With the proposed takeover agreed and reportedly moving forward in the right direction, we could see the deal completed before the end of November. That would mean the club would be prepared to go into the January window to strengthen in key areas that haven’t been addressed in recent years.

Plus, the new owners may want to instill that instant confidence into the fans by making a statement signing - or at least bringing some real quality to the starting line-up. Having scouted plenty of players in recent windows that would have fallen into that category, they are being linked with a move for AC Milan attacker Samuel Chukwueze.

The 25-year-old has been described as a ‘quality’ player by coach Paulo Fonseca and he may be on the move to Everton in January, says Football Insider. With the Friedkin Group already operating in Italy as owners of Roma, they are well placed to do a deal in Serie A. Despite not being a key starter, he is well-valued at Milan by Fonseca.

Yet, his record doesn’t stand out with just four goals in 42 games. He does possess far more quality than the record shows as his final year in Spain with Villarreal saw him notch 13 goals and 11 assists, as he netted across four competitions. Perhaps Italy just doesn’t suit him. For Everton, the most important part would be signing a right-winger who has the ability to cut in and score as well as take players on and it is something they haven’t had for some time.

If he was signed, he would balance perfectly with Iliman Ndiaye and give them two wingers that clubs need to be wary of. He ranks high for take-ons that lead to a shot or goal - and the rest of his figures show promise but it is clear his overall level has been lower since moving to Milan.

Having seen his best moments from across his career, he has produced real quality at times with his quick feet, sharp change of direction and ability to jink past a defender - as seen in his stunning goal against Real Madrid in 2023. It may be a longshot, given the report states it would be hard to do a deal, but if he continues to not be a starter, Everton could offer him the chance to become just that in the biggest league in the world. The promise of playing in a brand new stadium alongside a vision for future success could tip the odds in their favour - and get the fans on board at the same time.