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Sun 24 May

Everton join race for Watford’s ‘Golden Boy’ as summer transfer window looms

Shumail SajidShumail Sajid
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  • Nestory Irankunda has been linked to Crystal Palace as well
  • Watford winger has 4 goals and 4 assists in the Championship this season
  • Irankunda may cost around £17m to Everton

Everton’s summer transfer plans are already generating excitement. While big names like John Stones, Ben White, Liam Delap and Jack Grealish have been linked, David Moyes also needs squad depth, especially if the Toffees secure European football.

With four games remaining, starting with Manchester City at home, European qualification remains a realistic target.

The latest name to be added to Everton’s summer plans is Watford’s Australian winger, Nestory Irankunda, as per Sportsboom.

The 22‑year‑old, regarded as the “Golden Boy” of Australian football, moved from Bayern Munich to Watford in the summer of 2025. Since then, he has made 39 appearances in the Championship, contributing four goals and four assists this season. His explosive speed and dribbling ability have caught the attention of several clubs across Europe.

Nestory Irankunda has interest from several Premier League clubs

Fiorentina, Crystal Palace and Bayer Leverkusen are also interested in the winger, but Everton are reportedly in the mix. Watford could demand around £17m for his signature, though Bayern Munich hold a buy‑back clause and a 50% sell‑on fee, which complicates the negotiations.

Nestory Irankunda has made 39 appearances this season with 21 starts, logging 1,951 minutes. He has four goals and four assists from an Expected Goals (xG) of 4.47. He averages 1.6 shots per game and has created seven big chances.

His dribbling is particularly very strong, and he is also a threat from direct free‑kicks. He has scored two from 10 attempts, while he likes to dribble, shoot from distance, cut inside and gets fouled often.

Why Nestory Irankunda makes sense for Everton

Everton have already been linked with high‑profile English targets, but adding young, hungry talent with pace would give Moyes valuable options on the flanks. With Jack Grealish’s loan future uncertain and Tyrique George likely returning to Chelsea, a direct, explosive winger like Irankunda would provide a different threat.

His ability to play on either wing, cut inside and shoot from distance fits the modern Premier League style for explosive wingers. At 22, he has a lot of room to grow, and the reported £17m fee is not too much for a club expecting a significant summer budget.

European football would make Everton an even more attractive destination. If Moyes can convince Nestory Irankunda to choose Hill Dickinson Stadium over other suitors, the Toffees could secure one of Australia’s brightest prospects. The race is on.

matchday.

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Shumail Sajid is a dedicated and expert writer covering various teams, most recently, Everton, with a keen eye for team developments, match analysis, and the latest news. With three years of experience as a football writer, he provides interesting, insightful coverage that resonate with fans. Beyond writing, he is a passionate football follower, frequently attending matches and exploring football culture. Follow his work for in-depth yet fan-friendly analysis, and feel free to share your thoughts, even if you disagree! Connect with him on @shumail1434 on X

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