Everton are exploring a deal for Villarreal striker Etta Eyong, with Spanish outlets reporting that direct contact has already been made.
The 21-year-old enjoyed a prolific season in the lower tiers last year but has struggled to find consistent opportunities in La Liga. According to El Chiringuito, Eyong is not actively seeking a move but would be open to a Premier League switch if told he won’t play regularly at Villarreal.
His situation remains uncertain after starting and scoring in Villarreal’s 2–0 win over Real Oviedo last week. That appearance suggested he is part of Marcelino García Toral’s plans, yet the club are weighing their striking options. Could Everton take advantage of this moment of flux to bring him to Goodison Park?
Marcelino’s Verdict on Eyong
Villarreal’s manager sat on the fence when asked about Eyong’s future, but his praise for the Cameroonian was emphatic.
“He trains phenomenally, he’s an adorable guy and professional… Today, he has a 90% chance of playing next Sunday against Girona. That is the reality of the situation.” — Marcelino García Toral via El Desmarque
Marcelino highlighted Eyong’s work ethic, preseason form and ability to step up in competitive matches — reasons why Villarreal are reluctant to part with him despite outside interest.
Etta Eyong – 2024/25 Season by Numbers
| Stat (2024/25) | Etta Eyong |
|---|---|
| Appearances (all comps) | 35 |
| La Liga Minutes | 33 |
| Goals | 19 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Pass Accuracy | 79% |
source: sofascore match data – 22 August 2025
Eyong’s goals came almost entirely in the Primera Federación – Grupo II, where he scored 19 times and added six assists. His limited La Liga minutes show he remains unproven at the highest level — but Everton scouts see raw potential and physicality to adapt to English football.
Analyst Verdict
From reviewing his appearances, Eyong thrives in vertical systems where he can run into space behind defences. His movement is sharp, and his finishing clinical at lower levels — but the question is whether he can scale that to top-flight intensity.
For Everton, this is a gamble worth considering. Sean Dyche’s side remain short of goals, and with Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s fitness still under scrutiny, a young and hungry striker could prove a timely addition. The risk, of course, is whether Eyong can deliver immediately in the Premier League after only four senior La Liga appearances.
Key Insights
- Everton have contacted Villarreal about Etta Eyong
- Player not pushing for a move but open if minutes are limited
- Marcelino praises his attitude and hints he’ll play against Girona
- 19 goals + 6 assists last season (mostly in Spain’s third tier)
- Seen as a raw but promising option for Everton’s forward line
What’s Next
Talks remain at an exploratory stage, with Everton gauging Villarreal’s valuation. A loan with an option to buy has been mooted, though Villarreal may prefer to keep Eyong until January given his recent emergence in the first team.
For the player, much depends on whether he features consistently in La Liga over the next fortnight. If Marcelino’s faith translates into regular minutes, Eyong may prefer to stay in Spain. If not, Everton could offer the platform he needs to break out on a bigger stage.
Should Everton gamble on Etta Eyong now — or wait to see if he proves himself in La Liga first?
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