The departure of long-serving options and the need for greater competition on the right side of defence have left the Blues actively exploring the market, with several names assessed in recent weeks, including Tottenham and England defender Djed Spence.
After strengthening midfield with Hayden Hackney and continuing to reshape the squad elsewhere, attention has now shifted towards finding a full-back capable of making an immediate impact while fitting Moyes' long-term plans.
One player has now emerged as a standout target.
Everton eyeing move for Man City right-back Rico Lewis
According to TEAMtalk, Moyes personally wants Everton to sign Man City defender Rico Lewis.
The report claims the Toffees boss is a huge admirer of the 21-year-old and believes he could become part of Everton's rebuild if a deal can be agreed with the Premier League runners-up.
They add that Everton's interest should be taken seriously, and it is 'one to watch'.
It is easy to understand why Lewis appeals.
Why Rico Lewis would be perfect for Everton
Although naturally a right-back, the England international developed into one of English football's most versatile young players under ex-City boss Pep Guardiola.
Football FanCast's Verdict
Credibility
TEAMtalk has strengthened its reputation for Premier League transfer reporting in recent years, particularly through journalists with established club contacts. However, exclusives should always be treated cautiously until independently confirmed.
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Finances
Lewis remains under a long-term contract at City, meaning Everton would almost certainly need to pay a substantial transfer fee. City's strong negotiating position and the defender's homegrown status increase his value considerably, so any deal would represent one of Everton's biggest financial commitments of the current transfer window.
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Insight
Lewis stands out because of his versatility. Equally comfortable at right-back or in midfield, he reads the game quickly, rarely wastes possession and adapts effortlessly to different systems. Those qualities earned repeated praise from Pep Guardiola despite fierce competition within City's squad.
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Impact
Signing Lewis would give Everton far more than just a new right-back. He would allow Moyes to plug multiple holes at once, while his technical quality would improve the team's build-up play. At just 21, he could also become a cornerstone of Everton's squad for years to come.
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Comfortable stepping into midfield, operating as an inverted full-back or playing in a more traditional defensive role, Lewis has repeatedly demonstrated tactical intelligence well beyond his years.
Guardiola has never hidden how highly he rates him.
He has previously described Lewis as a "big talent" and famously compared him to Germany legend Philipp Lahm, calling the academy graduate "our little Philipp Lahm" because of his football intelligence and ability to move seamlessly between defence and midfield.
Guardiola has also praised Lewis for making those around him better, highlighting the youngster's awareness and decision-making as rare qualities for a player of his age.
Everton have traditionally relied on hard-working, disciplined defenders, but the modern game increasingly demands full-backs who can contribute in possession as well.
Lewis offers that balance.
His composure on the ball, passing range and positional flexibility would give Moyes greater options without sacrificing defensive reliability.
The biggest obstacle remains convincing City, who will sanction his exit, but only for the right price.
Lewis is a product of City's academy and has been trusted in major Premier League and Champions League fixtures despite fierce competition for places.
Even if regular opportunities have become harder to guarantee, City are unlikely to allow one of their brightest homegrown talents to leave without receiving a significant offer.
2 weeks ago
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