Everton have opened talks to sign Lois Openda from Juventus, putting their rivals Fulham and Lyon on notice. The Toffees are now in pole position to land the Belgian forward, who can play as a striker or on the wing, after Lyon’s shock collapse in their own pursuit. League standing: 13th in Premier League, 49 pts, 13W-10D-15L from 38 games, recent form LLDDL.
What’s the latest on the Openda chase?
Everton have moved first in the race for Lois Openda, the 24-year-old Belgian who joined Juventus for around £34m last summer. Reports from France confirm Everton’s approach is backed by a stronger financial hand, leaving Lyon red-faced after weeks of failed talks. Fulham had also been in the hunt, but the Toffees now look set to pip them to the post.
Openda’s final Bundesliga season showed his range: he started every week before managing just over 600 league minutes at Juventus. That output suggests he’s more than a pure scorer, bringing others into play and adding another dimension to Sean Dyche’s attack.
Why does Everton need Openda now?
The Toffees have already taken Hayden Hackney and Tyrique George, but their front line has struggled for goals and cohesion. Thierno Barry’s form has been patchy since his January move, while Beto has netted just four times in his last 20 games. A proven finisher like Openda could solve that problem at a stroke.
Dyche’s side sit 13th with 49 points, three above the drop zone, and have shipped 50 goals this season. Goals this season: 47 scored, 50 conceded (-3 goal difference). A new striker could shift the balance before the transfer window slams shut.
What’s next for the clubs and the player?
Lyon’s hopes of landing Openda are fading fast, with their rivals now in the driving seat. The Merseyside club’s financial muscle gives them an edge, though Juventus will demand a premium for a player they only signed 12 months ago.
Everton’s next fixture is away to Bolton on July 25, a game that could take place without Openda if the deal isn’t wrapped by then. Last result: Tottenham 1-0 Everton (2026-05-24). Recent form (last 5): 0W-2D-3L (LLLDD, most recent first); lost the last 3.
The window is tight, but Dyche’s side are pushing hard to add firepower before the August 1 deadline.
