Everton Secure £28m Signing of Chelsea’s Dewsbury-Hall
Everton have finalised a £28m deal to sign Chelsea midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, marking a significant addition to their squad ahead of the new season. The agreement includes an initial £24m fee, with an additional £3-4m in performance-related add-ons. The 26-year-old is now set to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms after Everton fended off late competition from Fulham to secure his signature.
Why Dewsbury-Hall Chose Everton Over Staying at Chelsea
Dewsbury-Hall initially hesitated to leave Chelsea, where he played a supporting role in a successful campaign that saw the Blues lift the FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Conference League while securing Champions League qualification. However, Chelsea’s openness to selling—particularly as they aim to recoup most of the £30m they paid Leicester City for him in 2024—paved the way for his exit.
The midfielder reunites with Everton manager David Moyes, who has been actively reshaping the squad. Moyes hinted at further business in his recent press conference, saying:
>I think there’ll be deals next week. We’re getting much closer, but I felt that four or five weeks ago as well. Obviously, we’re getting near the tickly bits and we’ve got to get some things done.
While negotiations with Southampton for winger Tyler Dibling have stalled due to valuation disagreements, Everton’s acquisition of Dewsbury-Hall signals their intent to strengthen their midfield.
Dewsbury-Hall’s Chelsea Stint: A Mixed Experience
The move to Chelsea last summer was a bittersweet transition for Dewsbury-Hall. Having been instrumental in Leicester’s Championship-winning season, he had hoped to establish himself in the Premier League with his boyhood club. His commitment to Leicester was so strong that he once rejected a move to Brighton. However, Chelsea’s late bid—bolstered by Leicester’s need to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR)—proved too compelling to ignore.
Under Enzo Maresca, Dewsbury-Hall adapted well tactically but struggled for consistent playing time, buried in the pecking order behind stars like Moisés Caicedo, Roméo Lavia, and Enzo Fernández. Despite limited Premier League starts, he made his mark in the Conference League, netting four goals and providing a crucial assist in the final against Real Betis. His contributions in the Club World Cup—including a goal against Benfica—further showcased his potential.
Ultimately, his departure aligns with Chelsea’s urgent need for squad restructuring. UEFA’s recent financial penalties have pressured the club to balance their books by offloading players from last season’s Conference League squad. Without sufficient sales, Chelsea risk being unable to register new signings, such as João Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and Liam Delap, for the Champions League.
What Dewsbury-Hall Brings to Everton
Dewsbury-Hall’s arrival at Goodison Park introduces creativity, versatility, and Premier League experience to Everton’s midfield. Known for his work rate, technical ability, and knack for late runs into the box, he could thrive in Moyes’ system, particularly if deployed in a more prominent role. His experience in high-pressure matches—both domestically and in Europe—adds valuable depth to an Everton side looking to climb the table.
Chelsea’s Ongoing Transfer Activity
While Dewsbury-Hall departs, Chelsea remain active in the market. Young French midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu has agreed to join Burnley, who are also in advanced talks for striker Armando Broja. Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund have reignited their interest in Carney Chukwuemeka as Chelsea continue trimming their squad.
The Blues are simultaneously pursuing reinforcements, with RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons emerging as a key target to bolster their midfield.
Final Thoughts
Everton’s acquisition of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall for £28m demonstrates their ambition to compete at a higher level this season. For Chelsea, the sale serves both financial and tactical purposes, allowing them to streamline their squad while complying with UEFA’s regulations.
As the transfer window heats up, Dewsbury-Hall’s move could be one of several high-profile deals before the deadline. For Everton fans, his arrival brings hope—a player with top-level experience, ready to make an immediate impact.
For more updates on Dewsbury-Hall’s transition and other Premier League transfers, stay tuned.
