Everton are reportedly plotting one of the most ambitious moves of the January transfer window, with new owners The Friedkin Group targeting a double raid on Manchester United for Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee.
According to a report from GiveMeSport (citing i News), the Toffees have identified the United duo as potential loan targets to bolster David Moyes’ squad for the second half of the campaign.
The report claims that Everton are in a "comfortable" position regarding Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and are ready to back their manager in the market. With the club hovering just outside the top half but eyeing a late European push, the hierarchy is keen to add Premier League quality without committing to massive permanent fees mid-season.
The Mainoo Ambition
The link to Kobbie Mainoo is the most eye-catching aspect of the report. The England international, widely regarded as one of the country's brightest talents, has found minutes harder to come by under Ruben Amorim. With reports suggesting he is currently out of favour, Everton view a loan move as a chance to offer him regular Premier League football in a competitive environment.
However, Premier League loan rules stipulate that Everton can only sign one player on loan from the same club. This means Moyes and his recruitment team would have to choose between the midfield control of Mainoo or the attacking reinforcement of Zirkzee.
Zirkzee’s Struggles
Joshua Zirkzee is also firmly on Everton’s radar. The Dutch forward has struggled to adapt to the pace of the Premier League since his summer arrival at Old Trafford. With United potentially looking to offload him temporarily to rebuild his confidence, Goodison Park could offer a sanctuary.
The report suggests that while Zirkzee is an option, Mainoo is viewed as the "smarter" target. Moyes currently has Thierno Barry developing well in attack, whereas Mainoo would offer an immediate upgrade in midfield quality that few other realistic targets could match.
The Friedkin Effect
This interest signals a shift in ambition at Goodison Park under The Friedkin Group. Targeting players from Manchester United—even on loan—demonstrates a desire to operate at a higher level than in previous windows. If they can pull off a deal for Mainoo, it would be a massive coup for the new ownership and a statement of intent to the rest of the league.
What Happens Next?
Everton must now decide which of the two United stars to prioritize. With Mainoo also linked to Napoli, the Toffees may face stiff competition. However, the allure of staying in the Premier League and playing under an experienced manager like Moyes could swing the decision in their favour.