Credit: Hasan Karim

Alex Charlton

Wed 18 June 2025 12:10, UK

Everton are making serious moves as they prepare to elevate their standing for the new Premier League season.

While there has been lots of talk regarding players, it is off the field where the Toffees are making their mark under the Friedkins.

Everton have already lined up a move for Manchester City’s director of scouting and recruitment, James Smith, who is to leave the Citizens.

Now, the North West club are set to poach a member of staff from their close rivals, Manchester United, in an astonishing move.

Everton make key behind-the-scenes appointment for Man United figure

The Toffees have been linked with several high-profile players this transfer window, with Kyle Walker the latest big name potentially joining Everton.

Jack Grealish is another pipedream signing for David Moyes, while early target Liam Delap has signed for Chelsea.

Not only are the Hill Dickinson club eyeing players for now, but they also have their gaze fully fixed on their future amid recent developments.

Everton are set to make a “stunning” appointment by hiring United’s academy director Nick Cox, according to The i (18 June).

Cox is highly rated and has been at Old Trafford for just under a decade, leading the youth operation since 2022.

Everton currently have a vacancy at the top of their academy in a newly-formed role after Gareth Prosser departed last month, and Cox has previously rejected similar offers.

The outlet claims that the move is at an advanced stage following Smith’s arrival from Man City.

Cox appointment can boost The Toffees’ academy issue

Everton have an underlying issue when it comes to their academy, but they are taking strides to fix it.

In the Toffees’ first team, it is hard to find players who have come through the youth setup and made their mark.

Jarrad Branthwaite was signed as a 17-year-old from Carlisle United and is the Toffees’ prized asset, but he was taken from another club first.

Antonee Robinson joined the Everton academy aged 11 and must be regarded as the one who got away, considering his career trajectory at Fulham and the big links that have followed.

Harrison Armstrong and Roman Dixon are academy products and have both made senior appearances; however, the Premier League side are lacking in consistent performers who have risen the ranks.

Of course, this is the Premier League, and it is a problem a host of clubs are facing with the influx of foreign players.

But Everton are looking to make a change, and the appointment of Cox can help them build a squad for the future.

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