Everton to approach United for striker Ethan Wheatley

Everton are preparing to make a formal approach to Manchester United for the signature of 20-year-old striker Ethan Wheatley, according to widespread reports on Saturday, August 1, 2026. The move would see the England Under-20 international leave Old Trafford on a permanent basis.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Everton are interested in the young forward and are formulating a proposal to present to United. Wheatley, who is under contract with United until 2028, is not currently with the club's preseason squad, indicating a departure is anticipated. He has made only four first-team appearances for United, all as a substitute during the 2023-24 Premier League season.

To gain experience, Wheatley has spent the last 18 months on loan in the Football League. His spells included time at Walsall, Northampton Town, and most recently Bradford City in the second half of the 2025-26 season. During his 12 appearances for Bradford, he failed to score and was not involved in their League One playoff campaign. Across all three loan clubs, he has registered three goals in 40 total appearances.

Despite his modest senior output, Wheatley is still regarded as a player with potential....