Everton agree £28m deal for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall amid midfield overhaul

Everton have reached an agreement with Chelsea to sign midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in a transfer worth approximately £28 million. 

The deal includes an initial payment of £24 million, with an additional £3–4 million in performance-related add-ons. The 26-year-old is now expected to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms, despite late interest from Fulham.

Dewsbury-Hall joined Chelsea from Leicester City in 2024 in a £30 million deal, reuniting with former Foxes manager Enzo Maresca. 

While the midfielder showed promise, he struggled to break into the starting lineup ahead of established names like Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Romeo Lavia. 

He made just two Premier League starts but impressed in cup competitions, including a goal and assist in Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League triumph and a key role in their FIFA Club World Cup success.

Chelsea’s decision to offload Dewsbury-Hall is part of a broader squad-trimming effort as they attempt to meet financial regulations. 

UEFA’s recent sanctions for breaches of financial control have forced the Blues to generate a positive transfer balance this summer to register new players such as Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and Liam Delap for Champions League competition. Dewsbury-Hall’s sale, along with other planned exits, contributes to this financial goal.

Everton, meanwhile, continue to push for reinforcements. Manager David Moyes recently hinted at more signings in the coming week, acknowledging the urgency as the Premier League season approaches. 

The Toffees are also pursuing Southampton winger Tyler Dibling, though they may pull out of the deal if the Saints don’t reduce their valuation after rejecting Everton’s second offer.

Chelsea’s summer clear-out is accelerating, with midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu set to join Burnley and striker Armando Broja also in talks with the Clarets. 

Additionally, Borussia Dortmund have reopened negotiations to sign Carney Chukwuemeka. On the incoming front, Chelsea are continuing discussions with RB Leipzig over Netherlands international Xavi Simons, in a bid to refresh their midfield setup.

Dewsbury-Hall’s exit marks another example of Chelsea’s quick player turnover under the current regime. Though he showed flashes of quality, including five goals across all competitions, the midfielder was ultimately unable to secure a regular role.