Everton are exploring a shock swoop for Manchester City full-back Rico Lewis, according to Football Insider, as David Moyes looks to solve his long-standing right-back headache.

From Guardiola’s Academy to a Potential Exit

Lewis broke into City’s first team back in 2022 after rising through the club’s academy, and the ride since has been remarkable — two Premier League titles, a Champions League triumph, and a trophy cabinet most 21-year-olds can only dream of. Yet game time has been scarce. Just 12 appearances across all competitions last season, despite chipping in with five goal contributions, suggests Enzo Maresca’s arrival could open the door for a departure.

Why Everton Need Him

Moyes’ right-back options fell apart last term. Seamus Coleman and Nathan Patterson battled fitness issues all season, forcing makeshift solutions like converted centre-back Jake O’Brien and even midfielder James Garner into the role. With Coleman gone on a free and Patterson’s future uncertain, the position is wide open — and Lewis, valued at £24m by Transfermarkt, ticks plenty of boxes.

The Size Question

Technically, Lewis is exactly what modern full-backs need to be: comfortable in possession, capable of threading passes, sharp positionally, and versatile enough to slot into midfield. But at 5ft 7in, he’s a stark contrast to the physical profile Moyes typically favours.

Whether that’s a dealbreaker or a detail Moyes is willing to overlook for genuine quality could define Everton’s summer at right-back.