“Everton’s SHOCKING Mega-Move to Snag Barcelona’s ‘UNBELIEVABLE’ Star That Even Pep Guardiola Can’t Stop Raving About!”
Everton made a strong push during the summer transfer window to sign a talented Barcelona player, even going as far as making an official approach.
While the deal ultimately fell through, it highlights the ambition behind David Moyes’ rebuilding project.
Everton backed to overcome Aston Villa
The Toffees return to Premier League action on Saturday afternoon when they host Aston Villa at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Moyes’ men come into the game chasing a third consecutive league victory, having already defeated Brighton at home and Wolves away in recent weeks.
This fixture feels like a significant marker for Everton. A win would underline their excellent early-season momentum and suggest that aiming for European qualification is not unrealistic.
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has tipped them to take all three points, praising the impact of their recent arrivals.
“Everton have become the entertainers, haven’t they?” Merson observed. “The partnership between Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Jack Grealish has been a joy to watch.
It’s also a good time for Everton to face Villa, who just can’t find the net at the moment.
I can’t quite believe I’m backing Everton here, because Villa are usually strong under Unai Emery, but they’re not functioning properly right now and I think their wait for a win will continue.”
The arrivals of Grealish and Dewsbury-Hall have already transformed Everton’s midfield and attacking play.
However, reports suggest the club were close to adding another highly rated youngster to their ranks.
Everton’s interest in Barcelona gem Marc Bernal
According to Mundo Deportivo [via Sport Witness], Everton were among a cluster of clubs that approached Barcelona over the signing of midfielder Marc Bernal.
Chelsea, Brighton, Valencia, Real Betis and Girona were also keen, but the 18-year-old ultimately stayed in Catalonia, where he played a part in Barca’s La Liga-winning squad last season.
Bernal is considered one of Spain’s most exciting prospects, already featuring three times for Barcelona’s first team and winning nine caps at Under-17 level for his country.
He has also caught the attention of Pep Guardiola, who offered glowing praise after seeing him in action.
“Marc Bernal seemed extraordinary to me,” Guardiola said. “The way he controls the game, how he positions himself, when to press, when to anticipate – everything he does is very intelligent. He and the other youngsters were fantastic.”
For Everton, Bernal would have been a coup, bringing depth and composure at the base of midfield.
If he becomes available again in January or next summer, Moyes could reignite his interest, whether on a permanent deal or a loan move.
