What Erik ten Hag has said about Ethan Wheatley as Everton prepare official approach

Erik ten Hag's early trust in Ethan Wheatley may give Everton confidence as they plot their next transfer.

The Toffees want to sign a new forward this summer to compete with one of Thierno Barry or Beto.

A lack of a consistent goal-scoring number nine was key to the Blues' downfall last season, and David Moyes wants to make sure that it doesn't happen again this campaign.

Wheatley has been identified as a target, though it remains to be seen whether Manchester United would allow the striker to be sold.

If the 20-year-old did come to Hill Dickinson as someone who is thought of as a starter, one of Beto or Barry would most likely depart.

With Everton ready to make a move, fans can take confidence in what ten Hag previously said about the youngster.

What Erik ten Hag said about Everton-linked Ethan Wheatley

Goodison News has gathered information that Everton are preparing an official approach for Wheatley.

Fabrizio Romano has labelled the number nine as a "talented" number nine in an update this Saturday.

It's highly likely that the Blues are readying a permanent offer for the former England U20s star.

He spent last season learning his trade in League One on two separate loans with Northampton Town and Bradford City.

Wheatley made his debut for Man United in a 4-2 win over Sheffield United on 24 April 2024, and has since made a further three appearances for the Red Devils.

Speaking after the game, ten Hag hinted that the player deserved to have the chance to play.

He said, as picked up by Utd District: "Credit to the academy, but you also see the club is growing. It’s clear we are improving; there are players coming up to the first-team.

"We are very pleased the 250th academy player [Wheatley] made his debut tonight."

Ten Hag's tenure at Old Trafford was clearly underwhelming, but Ruud van Nistelrooy also gave Wheatley a chance the following season, which proves Everton could be on to a real talent.

Most likely Wheatley situation

It would be a big ask for Wheatley to come to Everton and contest for a spot in the first-team squad straight away,

The Toffees will most likely pursue a proven goalscorer to aid their short-term plans, but are preparing for their long-term future with this transfer.

Wheatley's performances last season prove that he is a raw talent who needs a couple more loan experiences before making the step up to the Premier League.

He scored just three goals for Northampton before being loaned out to Bradford in a move that resulted in no goals across 12 games for the forward.

Is that someone ready for consistent Premier League football? We think not.