Moyes could sign his next Jarrod Bowen at Everton in £15m
David Moyes is reportedly on the brink of making a dramatic return to Goodison Park, just in time to oversee Everton’s final months at their historic stadium. The potential comeback of the former Toffees manager is not only poetic but also strategic, with The Friedkin Group targeting the Scotsman for his proven ability to transform struggling Premier League teams.
Moyes, who famously steered West Ham United to European glory in 2023, knows all too well how to navigate challenging circumstances. If appointed, this would mark the 61-year-old’s second stint at Everton and his third managerial comeback after being reappointed by West Ham in 2019.
A Transfer Market Rebuild?
One of Moyes’ first priorities will likely be securing assurances from the Everton board about the upcoming transfer window. His predecessor, Sean Dyche, often emphasized defensive solidity, but Moyes will need to inject attacking flair while maintaining a structured base.
This need is underscored by the club’s dire offensive statistics. Everton have scored just 15 goals in the Premier League this season—the second-lowest tally in the division—which has contributed to their position in the bottom three. Striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin has endured a woeful campaign, going 15 top-flight games without a goal or assist. With Armando Broja’s fitness also in doubt, signing a reliable forward will be a non-negotiable task for Moyes.
The Hunt for a New Striker
Among the names linked to Everton is Georges Mikautadze, a 24-year-old forward currently at Lyon. According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Mikautadze, who joined Lyon from Metz for €18m (£15m) last summer, could be sold due to Lyon’s ongoing financial troubles.
Mikautadze has already scored seven goals across all competitions this season, showcasing his potential to become the dynamic attacking presence Everton desperately need. The return of Moyes could be pivotal in convincing the Georgian international to take a leap of faith and move to Merseyside. Moyes has a history of identifying and nurturing versatile forwards, as evidenced by his transformative signing of Jarrod Bowen during his second stint at West Ham.
Mikautadze: The Next Jarrod Bowen?
When Moyes returned to West Ham in December 2019, he wasted no time signing Bowen from Hull City for £22m. The versatile forward quickly became a cornerstone of Moyes’ project, helping the Hammers avoid relegation and later playing a starring role in their 2023 UEFA Conference League triumph.
Bowen, now the West Ham captain, has amassed 107 goal contributions in 223 appearances and has been hailed as a club legend by pundits like Tom Rennie. Mikautadze, who shares a similarly adaptable skill set, could replicate Bowen’s impact under Moyes at Everton.
The Georgian forward ranks among the top 12% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues for progressive passes, the top 8% for progressive carries, and the top 4% for successful take-ons per 90 minutes, according to FBref. His dynamic style of play was on full display during Euro 2024, where he scored three goals, created five key chances, and completed seven dribbles in just four matches for Georgia.
Comparatively, Bowen ranks in the top 12% for assists, the top 14% for shot-creating actions, and the top 14% for successful take-ons per 90 minutes, highlighting similar strengths. Like Bowen, Mikautadze can play on the flanks or centrally, making him a versatile addition to any squad.
Everton’s Offensive Revamp
With Calvert-Lewin’s form continuing to decline and his contract set to expire this summer, the signing of a forward like Mikautadze could be crucial to Moyes’ plans. Everton’s fanbase will be hoping that the Scotsman can once again work his magic, creating a potent attacking force to complement the defensive solidity established under Dyche.
As Moyes stands on the brink of a return to Everton, the stakes could not be higher. A new striker, an injection of attacking flair, and a return to Goodison Park’s passionate roots could be the keys to saving the Toffees’ season. If history is anything to go by, Moyes has the experience and tactical acumen to deliver, ensuring that Everton’s final chapter at their iconic stadium is one to remember.
