Everton handed fresh hope in Brooke Norton-Cuffy pursuit

Everton have been handed fresh hope of signing Brooke Norton-Cuffy after Genoa manager Daniele De Rossi admitted the defender's future could become clearer after their Serie A opener.

The Toffees have been tracking the 22-year-old as they look to strengthen at right-back, and Genoa appear open to a late transfer.

Norton-Cuffy is currently back in De Rossi's squad and could feature against Napoli, but that does not mean a summer departure has been ruled out.

Norton-Cuffy initially found himself outside Genoa's squad for a pre-season friendly amid uncertainty over his future. He was later recalled and has continued training normally.

Speaking before the Napoli game, De Rossi confirmed he remains prepared to use the former Arsenal defender while he is still at the club.

“As long as he’s here, he’ll play. He’s training well,” De Rossi said.

“I think he’s better than last year. I know the transfer market issues well. At most, I’ll talk about it after the match.”

Those comments suggest Genoa are still dealing with interest in Norton-Cuffy and that developments could accelerate once their opening Serie A fixture is out of the way.

That could provide Everton with an opportunity during the final stages of the window.

Italian newspaper Secolo XIX also reports that Norton-Cuffy is likely to end up in the Premier League.

Significantly, Genoa appear to have already prepared for his possible departure.

Ignace Van Der Brempt is set to arrive from Como, giving De Rossi another option at right-back and potentially making it easier for Genoa to approve Norton-Cuffy's exit.

Everton's interest makes sense given their need to strengthen the position, while the defender would arrive with previous experience of English football.

Norton-Cuffy developed at Arsenal before spending loan spells away from the club. He moved permanently to Genoa in 2024 for just €2m and has since made 44 appearances in all competitions.

His development in Serie A means Genoa would expect to make a significant profit, although no asking price has been reported.

Everton could make their move after Genoa's opening fixture against Napoli. With Van Der Brempt arriving as a potential replacement and Norton-Cuffy linked with a Premier League return, the conditions for a late deal appear to be developing.

Should Everton make Brooke Norton-Cuffy their priority at right-back before the transfer deadline?