Everton step up Rico Lewis interest as Moyes targets Man City right-back

Everton target Manchester City's Rico Lewis as right-back solution

Everton are reportedly accelerating their interest in Manchester City defender Rico Lewis as David Moyes seeks to address a glaring weakness at right-back. The 20-year-old England youth international has moved from a position of vague admiration to a serious target for the Toffees, according to sources close to the club.

Why Moyes wants a right-back

Everton's right-back position has been a problem area all season. Seamus Coleman, now 36, has made only 12 appearances this term due to recurring hamstring injuries. Nathan Patterson, signed for £16 million in 2022, has struggled for consistency and fitness, managing just eight starts in the Premier League. Ashley Young, deployed as a makeshift option at 39, is better suited to left-back or a more advanced role.

David Moyes, who returned to Goodison Park in January, prefers a back four with full-backs who can contribute both defensively and in attack. Rico Lewis, primarily a right-back but also comfortable in midfield, fits that profile. At Manchester City, Lewis has made 23 appearances this season under Pep Guardiola, but his game time has been limited by the presence of Kyle Walker and the emergence of others.

Since Moyes's return, Everton have tightened up defensively, conceding only 1.2 goals per game compared to 1.8 before his arrival. However, the right side remains a vulnerability, with opponents targeting that flank in recent defeats to Liverpool and Manchester United.

What Lewis would bring to Everton

Rico Lewis is a modern full-back: comfortable on the ball, capable of inverting into midfield, and with a high work rate. He ranks in the 87th percentile for progressive passes among Premier League defenders this season, according to Opta data, and has a pass completion rate of 91.4%.

For FPL managers, Lewis is currently a budget option at £4.5 million with ownership below 2% – but at Everton, he could become a regular starter with potential for clean sheet points. Everton's upcoming fixtures against Burnley, Nottingham Forest and Wolves offer promise for defensive returns.

His versatility also appeals: Lewis can play as a right-back in a flat four, a wing-back in a back five, or even as a defensive midfielder. That flexibility would allow Moyes to switch between systems without substitution.

Transfer market context

Everton are operating under financial constraints after breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules last season, incurring a two-point deduction. This summer, the club may need to sell before they can buy, with the futures of Jarrad Branthwaite and Amadou Onana uncertain.

Rico Lewis, who signed a new contract until 2028 in January 2024, would command a fee in the region of £25–30 million, according to similar transfers. For context, Everton paid £16 million for Patterson and £12 million for Dwight McNeil. Lewis's value reflects his age, club, and experience at a top team.

Manchester City have no immediate need to sell, especially with Kyle Walker's age (34) and potential departure. However, Guardiola may be open to a loan with an option to buy if it helps the player's development.

Rico Lewis has 32 first-team appearances this season including Champions League minutes.
Lewis can also play left-back and defensive midfield.
Everton have not signed a player from Manchester City since 2022 (Cole Palmer loan).

What’s next for Everton and Lewis

Everton are expected to formalise their interest with an approach in the coming weeks. Moyes's direct style of management and track record of developing young players could be a draw for Lewis, who has expressed a desire for more first-team football. City are unlikely to block a move if the fee meets their valuation and if they can secure a buy-back or sell-on clause. For Everton, securing a long-term right-back solution is a priority if they are to avoid another relegation battle.