Everton plot January Chukwueze raid

Everton are plotting a January move for AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze as they look to bolster their attacking options, PUNCH Sports reports.

The Merseyside club, currently sitting 16th in the Premier League table, are keen to strengthen their squad in the upcoming transfer window to avoid another relegation battle.

Sources close to the club have revealed that Chukwueze, who has been on Everton’s radar before, is a prime target for manager Sean Dyche.

The 25-year-old has struggled for regular playing time at AC Milan this season under new coach Paolo Fonseca, with six of his eight appearances in all competitions coming from the bench.

This limited game time has fuelled speculation about his future at the San Siro, despite recently ending an eight-game goal drought with a match-winning strike against Udinese on Saturday.

Chukwueze joined Milan from Villarreal in the summer of 2023 for a reported €20m plus bonuses, making him the club’s most expensive signing of that transfer window. However, the winger has found it challenging to replicate the form that made him a standout performer in La Liga, managing just four goals in 41 appearances for the Rossoneri.

Everton’s interest in the Nigeria international comes at a time of significant change for the club. The Friedkin Group, who have experience in Italian football through their ownership of AS Roma, are in the process of purchasing Farhad Moshiri’s 94.1% stake in Everton. This impending takeover could potentially provide the financial backing needed to secure high-profile signings like Chukwueze.

Dyche is reportedly targeting a right-winger to enhance his team’s attacking options, with Chukwueze and Santiago Castro both on the club’s shortlist.

The potential move to Everton could offer Chukwueze a fresh start and the opportunity for regular first-team football in the Premier League. It would also represent a significant statement of intent from Everton’s prospective new owners, who are keen to see the club push away from relegation battles and establish themselves as a competitive force in the top flight.

Chukwueze has also been linked with moves to other Premier League clubs, including West Ham and Aston Villa, as well as Spanish giants Atletico Madrid. Recent reports from Italy have even suggested interest from Saudi Pro League clubs, indicating the wide range of options potentially available to the Nigerian winger.