Everton are reportedly keen on signing Lecce centre-back Tiago Gabriel, as per Football Insider.
After moving to Via del Mar from FC Estrela Amadora in January 2025, the 21-year-old initially took time to settle into his new surroundings. However, he showed glimpses of his qualities last term, scoring twice and keeping nine clean sheets across all competitions.
He even helped his side avoid relegation. This season, Gabriel has enjoyed a bright start, scoring twice and registering a solitary assist in nine appearances in all tournaments. Moreover, he has helped his side keep a clean sheet.
Now, Football Insider report that after being impressed by the youngster’s recent development, Everton are clear admirers of him and could make a concrete approach to buy him next year.
However, the Toffees will have to overcome fierce competition to seal the deal as Crystal Palace, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan are also in this race.
The youngster is even preferring a move to the Giuseppe Meazza Stadium or the Allianz Arena to compete at the highest level. So, Everton need to act quickly in the January window to seal the deal ahead of other clubs, with Lecce open to letting him leave.
Gabriel is valued at around £12m by Transfermarkt and still has a contract until 2030. Therefore, Lecce are in a strong position to demand a sizable amount of money for him.
Gabriel to Everton
The Lecce star is a 6ft 5in tall right-footed centre-back. He is quick, strong, good in the air, comfortable playing out from the back and is efficient in defensive contributions.
The Toffees currently have James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite, Michael Keane and Jake O’Brian as centre-back options. However, Branthwaite has struggled with fitness problems in recent years and has attracted a lot of attention.
On the other hand, Keane has entered the final few months of his current contract. Therefore, David Moyes is seemingly keen on signing a new defender.
Gabriel is a talented player and possesses high potential. Therefore, he might be a shrewd acquisition for Everton with a view to the long-term future should they purchase him.
However, it is going to be interesting to see…
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