Everton are closing in on a move for Lyon full-back Ainsley Maitland-Niles, which casts doubts on their chase of Fulham’s Kenny Tete.
Everton are closing in on a move for Lyon full-back Ainsley Maitland-Niles in a deal worth £4.2 million, as reported by Sky Sports, threatening to derail their pursuit of Fulham’s Kenny Tete.
Everton’s need for a new right-back has driven their summer recruitment push. Throughout the transfer window, the Toffees have been unable to secure a replacement, despite links to numerous targets. Manager David Moyes faced a shortage of options in the position, and was forced to deploy midfielder Merlion Rohl and centre-back Jake O’Brien out of position last season to cover the right-back slot.
The club had been closing in on a move for Fulham’s Kenny Tete, with personal terms thought to be agreed. A £9 million fee for the Netherlands international right-back was reported, though the move now appears to be stalling. Fulham’s inability to identify a replacement for Tete has complicated the deal, and the Toffees have responded by pursuing alternative options.
The main reason presented in the report is Fulham’s inability to find a replacement for Tete, which could potentially stall a move to Everton in the coming hours. The Toffees are not sitting back and have explored other options including Ainsley Maitland-Niles, a player who was reportedly of interest earlier in the summer.
Explaining Everton’s interest in Maitland-Niles
Everton are now closing in on a permanent transfer for 29-year-old ex-Arsenal full-back Maitland-Niles, in a deal worth £4.2 million. With the Englishman entering the final year of his Lyon contract, the Ligue 1 club have opted to sell rather than risk losing him as a free agent at season’s end.
With the Maitland-Niles move advancing, Everton’s pursuit of Tete appears to be winding down. The Toffees are expected to proceed with the Lyon deal and could finalise a transfer in the coming hours.
Maitland-Niles joined Lyon in 2023 on a free transfer following the expiry of his Arsenal contract. He made 132 appearances for the Gunners across all competitions during his time at the North London club. At the Ligue 1 club, he has been a consistent performer, making 119 appearances for Les Gones.
