In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves through the Premier League, Manchester City’s veteran right-back Kyle Walker has reportedly agreed to a sensational transfer to rivals Everton, marking a bold new chapter for both the player and the Toffees. The move, greenlit by City’s hierarchy following a pivotal decision regarding Jack Grealish’s future, signals a significant squad overhaul at the Etihad as Pep Guardiola looks to rejuvenate his team after a lackluster 2024/25 campaign. With Everton poised to make a splash in their new Hill Dickinson Stadium under the revitalized leadership of David Moyes, Walker’s impending arrival underscores the club’s ambition to climb the Premier League ranks, while City braces for a transformative summer transfer window.
Walker, the 35-year-old England international and former City captain, has been a cornerstone of Guardiola’s dynasty, contributing to six Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph since joining from Tottenham in 2017. However, his role diminished last season, culminating in a loan spell at AC Milan during the latter half of 2024/25. Upon his return, Everton seized the opportunity, engaging in talks with the seasoned defender. “The England right-back has been locked in talks with Toffees chiefs since his return from his loan spell at AC Milan,” a source close to the negotiations revealed, noting that the transfer could be either a permanent deal or a 12-month loan as Walker sees out the final year of his City contract. While Fulham also expressed interest, they were unable to match the financial package, leaving Everton as the frontrunners to secure the six-time Premier League winner’s signature.
The transfer comes on the heels of Manchester City’s decision to part ways with Jack Grealish, the £100 million winger whose time at the Etihad has been marred by injuries and inconsistent form. Grealish, omitted from City’s squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, has been linked with multiple clubs, including Everton, Newcastle, and European sides like Napoli and AC Milan. His reported £300,000-a-week wages pose a challenge, but Everton’s interest in him reflects their bold vision under the Friedkin Group’s recent takeover. “Jack Grealish favours a move to Everton over Newcastle United and the foreign clubs chasing him,” an insider noted, citing the allure of regular playing time and the prestige of Everton’s new stadium as key factors. However, Walker’s deal appears to be the first to materialize, with City approving the move as part of a broader strategy to streamline Guardiola’s squad.
City’s disappointing third-place finish in the 2024/25 Premier League season, coupled with an FA Cup final loss and a Champions League round-of-16 exit, has prompted a squad refresh. New signings like Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan and Rayan Cherki from Lyon signal City’s intent to bolster their midfield, while the departures of aging stars like Kevin De Bruyne, whose contract expires this summer, and potentially Ederson and John Stones, underline the scale of the rebuild. Walker’s exit, though bittersweet, aligns with Guardiola’s desire for a leaner, more dynamic squad. “Everton and current club Manchester City will now thrash out whether it is a permanent deal or just a 12-month loan,” the source added, highlighting the ongoing negotiations to finalize the transfer structure.
For Everton, the acquisition of Walker is a statement of intent. Under Moyes, who returned to Goodison Park to steer the club into a new era, the Toffees are leveraging their increased budget to target marquee signings. The move to their state-of-the-art stadium has galvanized the club, with fans dreaming of a return to European contention. Walker’s experience, leadership, and defensive nous could prove invaluable, especially as Everton aim to build on their recent progress. Meanwhile, City’s focus shifts to the Club World Cup, where they face Wydad Casablanca, Al-Ain, and Juventus, hoping to salvage a trophy from a challenging season while navigating a complex transfer market.
As the summer window heats up, Walker’s move to Everton could set the tone for a flurry of activity. Will Grealish follow his teammate to Merseyside, or will he seek a fresh start abroad? Can City rediscover their winning formula with their new recruits? For now, Walker’s sensational switch to a Premier League rival has stolen the headlines, promising to reshape the landscape of English football as both clubs chart bold new paths.
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