After several bids and lots of fan excitement, Everton’s move for Tyler Dibling seems to have lost momentum.
The 19-year-old, seen as one of the best young talents in the country, had been viewed as the perfect solution for David Moyes’ right-winger problem.
But now, after Southampton reportedly asked for a deal worth £50 million for Dibling with a 25% sell-on clause, there seems to be too great a gap in valuation between the clubs.
With Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom both no longer at Everton following the expiration of their loans, there is no recognised right-winger at the club, creating a necessity for one to be brought in, and fast.
As the club have reportedly now moved on to other targets, we took a look at five potential options to fill the gap ahead of the Blues’ first season at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Who could Everton sign instead of Tyler Dibling?
Malick Fofana
One of the players most prominently linked with Everton in recent weeks, Lyon starlet Malick Fofana, is rated as one of the best young wingers in Europe – and with his club not in a strong financial position, he could be more affordable than expected.
Everton are reportedly awaiting a decision on personal terms from Fofana, who made his debut for the senior Belgian National Team last October.
However, with the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, and Tottenham also reported to be interested, they may not get the response they want.
The 20-year-old spent most of last season playing on the left for the French giants, but has experience on the other side. Should he decide to join the Toffees, he would certainly be a blockbuster signing.
Assane Diao
Another potential statement of intent would be Assane Diao, who has been on fire in Serie A since joining Como in January.
With eight goals in just 15 league matches for Cesc Fabregas’ side, Diao’s price has been set high by Como, who have him contracted until 2029, having only signed him in January.
At the same age as Dibling, the Senegal international would be another coup for the future should Everton complete a deal.
However, given that his club are heavily backed financially with no need to sell, a deal does not look likely at present.
Omari Hutchinson
A more local option would be Omari Hutchinson, who is subject to interest from several Premier League clubs following Ipswich’s relegation.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the former Chelsea and Arsenal talent had a £35 million release clause active, which expired earlier in the transfer window.
With Brentford the most heavily interested, a deal wouldn’t be without competition, but Hutchinson would likely be a starter at Everton.
A technically gifted, left-footed player, the 21-year-old scored in the final of the Under-21 European Championships this summer, which England won 3-2 against Germany. A move to Merseyside could allow him to play in a more established Premier League side.
Ben Doak
Given his position as a Liverpool player, Ben Doak’s rumoured interest from Everton this summer has caused debate.
The Blues are far from the only side interested, however – Crystal Palace had several bids rejected in January.
Having moved to Anfield from Celtic aged 16, the Scottish winger starred at youth level before making his breakthrough with the Scotland national team this year.
Despite having his season-long loan at Middlesbrough cut short through injury, he made his presence felt in the Championship.
Another 19-year-old option, Doak, would likely come at a premium given the natural rivalry that exists between the two clubs.
However, with first-team opportunities limited at his current club, Everton could give him a Premier League platform.
Takefusa Kubo
A few years ago, Takefusa Kubo was one of the most spoken about young attackers in the game.
But after a less consistent season with his club last time out, the demand is not quite as high for the Japan international.
Real Sociedad president Aperriba has admitted that there is Premier League interest in Kubo, and that the player would be interested in a move.
However, Everton’s pursuit does not look to have moved beyond initial inquiries at this stage.
A star player for his country, the diminutive forward was picked up by Real Madrid as a teenager, having spent time with Barcelona as a child.
The talent cannot be doubted – if he can show it in England, he could be one of the signings of the summer.