Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Mon 25 May 2026 19:10, UK

Everton will need quite a few signings in the summer window to bridge the gap to European places.

Work will already have been underway to scout for any potential targets, but the World Cup does pose an obstacle in getting business finished early.

Plenty of the best players in world football will be competing in the tournament, meaning medicals will be impossible to conduct throughout the competition.

However, Everton’s summer business could include signing players not going to North America.

One player that has been on Everton’s shortlist is Udinese attacking midfielder Arthur Atta, but the Toffees now pose making a big mistake.

Why Everton risk Arthur Atta mistake as Premier League rivals circle

Atta has been exceptional for Udinese in the Serie A this season, and it makes it no surprise that some of the top Premier League sides are in the mix for him.

According to Tuttomercatoweb, Newcastle, Bournemouth and Brighton are all said to have put forward an offer of £25.8million (€30million) for the Udinese midfielder.

However, if Everton stand and watch their Premier League rivals make a move for their target, they risk standing still in the Premier League.

Atta would be an excellent backup for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and a lack of quality options off the bench has been an issue for David Moyes’ side this season.

The Frenchman, who is just 23 years old, could even push for a starting role against the Englishman, with competition for places likely breeding success.

Previous reports did suggest that Atta was being “closely monitored” by Hill Dickinson officials, so if bids have been tabled, they will already know.

Perhaps the scouts have identified other targets in the market. However, the history of Brighton and Bournemouth’s talent ID suggests Atta may be the next big thing.

How Everton may have hurt their own transfer plans

Everton’s failure to qualify for Europe may end up being a defining factor to whatever decision Atta will make over his future.

If the Frenchman joins Bournemouth or Brighton, that may come down to the fact that both Premier League outfits have qualified for Europe.

Additionally, if the Cherries snap up the 23-year-old, it will be the second time in two years they have secured the signing of an Everton target.

The Toffees will likely still be reeling over being unable to land Adrien Truffert, who had an exceptional campaign.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.