Everton have been handed a fresh transfer clue over Watford’s Nestory Irankunda - and it could force David Moyes to speed up his summer business before Hull City land the 20-year-old. The Australian winger tops the Toffees’ wish list as they chase attacking reinforcements, but the Blues are not alone in the race. Hull City owner Acun Ilicali just dropped a social media hint that suggests his side is 80% done with their pursuit of Irankunda, the only Australian linked to MKM Stadium. If Moyes wants the winger, he must move now or risk losing out to the Tigers.
League standing: 13th in Premier League, 49 pts, 13W-10D-15L from 38 games, recent form LLDDL.
Who is Nestory Irankunda and why does Everton want him?
Irankunda is a 20-year-old Australian winger who has impressed for Watford this season with his pace and direct running. The Hornets have set a valuation that has so far seen Hull City and Everton battle for his signature. Everton lack cutting edge in attack and see the youngster as a perfect fit to bolster their thin forward ranks ahead of a tough new campaign. Moyes has been cautious in the market so far, but the latest twist from Hull City’s camp means the Toffees can no longer afford to wait.
The Blues have already seen one summer move fall through - their only completed signing this close to the season’s August start - and the pressure is on to land a marquee name. Irankunda’s ability to stretch defences and carry the ball at speed makes him a direct threat that Everton desperately need.
What did Hull City’s owner say and how does it affect Everton?
Acun Ilicali posted a cryptic social media update that listed several newly-promoted sides and their transfer progress using national flags and completion percentages. The Australian flag was marked at 80%, and Irankunda is the only Australian linked to Hull City’s stadium. That points to a deal very close to being done - unless Everton step in.
The message is clear: Hull City believe they are on the verge of landing Irankunda, and Moyes must react fast to leapfrog them. The Toffees’ recruitment team knows exactly where the Tigers stand, and the window to act is shrinking day by day.
Can Everton still land Irankunda before the window slams shut?
Everton’s transfer business has been slow so far, with just one new face added to the squad ahead of the new season. The Toffees sit 13th in the Premier League with 49 points from 38 games and a worrying recent run of three straight losses. To push for Europe, they need attacking firepower - and Irankunda fits the bill.
The latest clue from Hull City gives Moyes a clear target to target. If the Toffees are serious about pushing for a top-half finish, they cannot afford to let Hull City steal the deal. The clock is ticking, and the next few days will decide whether Irankunda ends up at Goodison or MKM Stadium.
Everton face Bolton away on July 25, but the Irankunda race could overshadow even that fixture. The Toffees must decide: chase the winger now, or watch him slip through their fingers.
