Gueye upgrade: Everton now preparing bid to sign £75k-p/w “monster”

Gueye Upgrade: Everton Now Preparing Bid to Sign £75k-p/w “Monster”
Everton Football Club, fresh off a season that saw them finish 13th in the Premier League, appears to be wasting no time in strengthening their squad for the upcoming campaign. While the club has successfully secured an extension for their veteran midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye, who, despite being 35, was named Everton’s Player of the Season for 2024-2025 and remains a crucial figure, reports suggest the Toffees are now actively pursuing an upgrade in the midfield. This move indicates a clear intent to build on Gueye’s continued influence while introducing a new, powerful presence to the engine room.
The “monster” in question, widely reported to be Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi, is a player Everton have been linked with alongside Manchester United, Juventus, and Real Betis. The Nigerian international, who reportedly commands a salary in the region of £75,000 per week, presents an intriguing prospect for the Merseyside club. Despite Leicester City’s return to the Championship, Ndidi’s quality and experience in the Premier League are undeniable, having accumulated 220 appearances in the top flight.
Everton’s pursuit of Ndidi signifies a strategic decision to enhance their defensive midfield options and bring a more robust, dynamic presence to the center of the park. While Gueye’s tireless work rate and astute ball winning have been invaluable, a long-term plan requires securing players who can provide similar impact for years to come. Ndidi, at 28 years old, offers a blend of experience and longevity, fitting the profile of a player who can immediately contribute while also being a foundational piece for the future.
The reported £5 million deal for Ndidi, despite a higher release clause of £9 million, highlights Everton’s determination to secure a good value acquisition in a market often inflated with exorbitant price tags. With a reported transfer budget in the range of £50-£100 million and new ownership seemingly committed to significant investment, the club is keen to make smart, impactful signings.
This move for Ndidi, even with Gueye’s recent contract extension until June 2026 with an option for an additional year, suggests a desire to evolve the midfield. It’s not about replacing Gueye, but rather complementing his strengths and ensuring the squad has multiple high-calibre options in a demanding Premier League. The potential arrival of a player of Ndidi’s ilk would undoubtedly provide the “upgrade” Everton seeks, offering a powerful, ball-winning “monster” to reinforce their ambitions for a stronger showing in the 2025-2026 season.