- Everton join a massive European transfer race for a £7m defender.
- Swiss powerhouse could solve Everton’s looming defensive crisis.
- Toffees battle Liverpool to secure £7m summer transfer bargain.
Everton are looking to bolster defensive options this summer. Jarrad Branthwaite missed a number of games through injury.
James Tarkowski and Michael Keane are in their 30s. Adding a young centre‑back makes sense and a requirement.
The latest name on the list is OH Leuven’s Roggerio Nyakossi. The 22‑year‑old Swiss Under‑21 captain had an impressive campaign in Belgian football. Everton are now amongst the clubs showing keen interest.
Interest from across Europe
Nyakossi is in demand. Premier League giants Liverpool, West Ham and Southampton are reportedly among those keen on landing him this summer. Everton and Ipswich Town are the latest clubs to be linked.
French sides Strasbourg and Lyon are also tracking him, along with Bundesliga outfits Augsburg, Hoffenheim, Stuttgart and Werder Bremen. There is no shortage of options for the young defender. This is a massive list to choose from. His market value of £7m have increased the potential suitors as he is available for a bargain.
Nyakossi arrived at Leuven from Marseille in January 2025. He signed a two‑year deal, keeping him at the club until June 2027. Former club Marseille have a £5m buyback clause in the deal as well. Leuven value Nyakossi at £7m after a season in which he returned four goals from 28 appearances. He has been described as a solid centre‑back.
Why Everton are interested in Roggerio Nyakossi
Everton have been linked with several defenders. The need for defensive reinforcements is clearly evident. Branthwaite’s injury problems mean the club cannot rely on him alone. James Tarkowski and Keane are experienced but not getting younger. Keane signed a new one-year deal that will keep him at the club for the next season. While Tarkowski had a brilliant season, he, too, is 33. A young, talented centre‑back who can develop alongside the current group would be a smart addition.
Last summer, there was talk of a £1.5m bid from Portsmouth for Nyakossi. His value has clearly risen since then. The current £7m asking price is not huge by Premier League standards. Marseille’s buyback clause at £5m means Leuven cannot ask for an unrealistic fee, so if Everton moves quickly, they could secure a promising defender at a very reasonable cost.
Competition for Nyakossi is fierce. Liverpool and others will make it difficult. But Everton can offer minutes available at his position.
Nyakossi is one to watch. The Swiss Under‑21 captain has options. Everton have joined the race. Now it is down to Moyes and the recruitment team to decide if he is worth pursuing.
- From Ancelotti to the “Vampire”: Everton’s most bizarre and brutal summer
- Hayden Hackney rumour reveals Everton’s transfer strategy
- Why Everton’s pursuit of Hayden Hackney could force out a fan-favorite veteran
- David Moyes debate reveals Everton question The Friedkin Group cannot ignore
- Everton transfer interest in Watford star highlights key Moyes dilemma
