Everton set to move for Man Utd striker in shock transfer as they prepare offer

MANCHESTER UNITED youngster Ethan Wheatley is reportedly attracting interest from Premier League rivals Everton. The 20-year-old forward could be set for a fresh opportunity after struggling to force his way into the first-team picture at Old Trafford. Ethan Wheatley made his name in Manchester United’s academy before earning his senior breakthrough under Erik ten Hag Credit: Getty David Moyes is looking to strengthen Everton’s attacking options as the Toffees search for more goals this season Credit: Willie Vass Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed on X: “EXCL: Everton are interested in Man United talented striker Ethan Wheatley.” “#EFC preparing a proposal to make formal approach with Man United soon for the 20 year old forward.” Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! Wheatley has been with United since the age of nine and was handed his senior breakthrough by Erik ten Hag during the 2023/24 campaign, making three first-team appearances. Since then, the striker has gained experience on loan with Walsall, Northampton Town and Bradford City, scoring three goals across 40 appearances as he continued his development. Despite those modest numbers, Wheatley remains highly regarded and has represented England throughout the youth ranks, earning caps at Under-17, Under-18, Under-19 and Under-20 level. Competition at United is fierce, with Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, Joshua Zirkzee and Marcus Rashford all options in attack next season. However, both Zirkzee and Rashford continue to be linked with potential exits. That leaves Wheatley looking surplus to requirements for now, with Everton potentially able to offer him a clearer pathway under David Moyes. Most read in Sport CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS Wheatley has represented England at multiple youth levels and remains one of the country’s highly-rated young forwards Credit: Getty The Toffees are expected to strengthen their forward line after Thierno Barry and Beto scored just 18 goals in 71 appearances combined in all competitions last season, while Everton scored only 47 Premier League goals. Rather than arriving with the burden of delivering immediate goals, Wheatley would instead be viewed as a long-term project, with Everton hoping regular minutes could help unlock the potential that first caught Manchester United‘s eye over a decade ago. Comment now