David Moyes to sanction Everton exit for player who started vs Arsenal, he wants fresh start
Everton are set for a busy January transfer window as they look to strengthen their European ambitions under David Moyes.
Everton’s 1-0 loss to Arsenal on Saturday highlighted the work they still have to do if they want to reach the next level, and incomings and outgoings are already on Moyes’ mind.
Squad depth is desperately needed in attacking areas, and Everton have already been linked with strikers to replace the misfiring Beto.
However, the Toffees must also strengthen their threat out wide, and after an underwhelming display against the league leaders at Hill Dickinson Stadium, Dwight McNeil’s career at Everton appears to be coming to an end.
David Moyes set to sanction Dwight McNeil’s move to Nottingham Forest
McNeil’s only Premier League start this season came against Arsenal, and he has been on the periphery of the squad thanks to the performances of Jack Grealish and Iliman Ndiaye.
John Percy reported for The Telegraph’s print edition on Monday that Moyes will sanction a deal for the winger to join Forest, although this will be delayed with Ndiaye playing for Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Current Forest and former Everton boss Dyche has managed McNeil in L4 and at Burnley, and wants to offer the former England Under-21 international a fresh start at the City Ground.
The Toffees’ issues are laid bare when they have to call upon their backup options, and they must strengthen in that area during the January window.
McNeil failed to impress against Arsenal, with the 26-year-old registering just 22 touches, losing possession eight times, and failing to have a single shot before being replaced by Tyler Dibling in the 75th minute.
With his exit now looking even more likely, his time at Everton has certainly seen some brilliant highs.
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How will McNeil be remembered by Everton fans?
McNeil joined Everton from Burnley in July 2022, and has turned up in key moments for the Toffees over the years.
He has a tendency to only score stunning goals, and his strike against Crystal Palace in September 2024 was one of the last times he showcased his brilliance in a blue shirt.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 115 | 15 | 17 |
He became the fifth player in Premier League history to reach 100 appearances for two different clubs on Saturday, and has been a reliable asset for the Toffees in the past.
However, Moyes is in desperate need of more quality, and while he’ll be remembered fondly by the Everton faithful, a move to Nottingham Forest is the best decision for all parties involved.
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