Why Manchester United fans shouldn't be shocked by Everton's hunt for 'fascinating' Ethan Wheatley deal
Manchester United's Ethan Wheatley has big admirers at Everton.
The Toffees have been linked with an unexpected move to land the 20-year-old, who would be a development signing.
David Moyes is keen to sign a new number nine, though it's understood that the Man United youngster would not challenge Thierno Barry or Beto for a starting spot this season.
The Blues are no further along with their efforts to try and bring a senior centre-forward to Hill Dickinson, though they have outlined a clear plan to improve their academy with this move.
Some of the Old Trafford faithful are said to be shocked at the interest from Moyes' side, but when delving deeper into the context, it makes sense.
Everton are fans of Wheatley, though some at the club know the striker better than others.
Everton figure loves Ethan Wheatley amid 'fascinating' transfer possibility
Everton are preparing a formal approach to sign Wheatley, who they see as a striker with huge potential
The former England U20s star has had three loan spells across the EFL with the likes of Walsall, Northampton Town and Bradford City.
He has proved himself as a lethal goalscorer for the Red Devils in their U21s setup, scoring 10 goals in 17 games during the 2024-25 campaign.
On page 41 of the Manchester Evening News print edition this Saturday, it's said that the Toffees would initially sign Wheatley for their academy, with the view for him to break into the first-team picture in the future.
The interest came as a shock to some supporters, but former Man United academy chief Nick Cox, who is now Everton's technical director, is said to be a "huge admirer" of the player.
A move to Hill Dickinson has been described as "fascinating", as his underwhelming performances in the EFL so far have been likened to the fact that Harry Kane needed four loan spells until he took off for Tottenham.
What Wheatley's arrival would mean for Everton academy
Everton have let some of their talented U21s players leave this summer, and are looking to bolster the squad out before the season starts.
They have some talented youngsters like Braiden Graham and Reece Welch, but perhaps not an outstanding striker.
Graham was the clear top goalscorer for the U21s last season, but behind him was striker Omari Benjamin, who only managed three goals.
It's clear that Everton officials feel that there is a lack of promising number nines at Finch Farm, so adding Wheatley would allow the Englishman to flourish as the main man.