Everton swap with Roma seen as emergency solution ahead of January window

A potential January deal involving Everton and Roma is being framed in Italy as a contingency plan rather than a priority, with fresh reports suggesting several moving parts would need to fall into place before talks accelerate. While the shared Friedkin ownership between the two clubs has fuelled speculation, the reality appears far more complex.

Last week, journalist Matteo Moretto raised the possibility of a swap deal between Everton and AS Roma, involving Roma striker Artem Dovbyk and Everton forward Beto. The logic was simple: both clubs are seeking solutions to goalscoring problems, and common ownership could help smooth negotiations.

According to Il Messaggero, Roma’s hierarchy admire Beto’s physical profile and believe he fits the tactical demands of head coach Gian Piero Gasperini. However, the report stresses that any move would only become possible if attacking midfielder Tommaso Baldanzi leaves the club during the January window.

Baldanzi has been linked with Hellas Verona for several months, and his departure would free up both squad space and budget. There is also uncertainty surrounding young midfielder Niccolò Pisilli, whose future could indirectly influence Roma’s ability to move for Everton’s striker.

From my experience covering Serie A transfer windows, this kind of domino setup often slows deals rather than accelerates them. Roma rarely move decisively until outgoing transfers are secured, particularly in January.

Gazzetta dello Sport adds further context, describing the proposed Everton–Roma swap as an “emergency solution” — one that would only be considered late in the window. The emergency, in this case, would be Roma failing to land their primary attacking targets.

Dovbyk, meanwhile, is not untouchable. Reports in Italy claim the Ukrainian has been offered to clubs in England, which may explain why Everton have emerged as a convenient option. The Friedkin ownership structure undoubtedly makes communication easier, but it does not remove the practical difficulties of executing a swap deal.

Swap transfers remain rare for a reason. Aligning valuations, wages, agent fees and player consent — all under tight January deadlines — is notoriously difficult.

For Everton, this scenario feels reactive rather than strategic. Beto has struggled for consistent rhythm, but sacrificing him mid-season for a striker also finding his feet elsewhere carries risk. If this deal materialises late in January, Everton could find themselves short of time to adjust should it not work out.

That said, if Roma are genuinely open to moving Dovbyk and Everton see upside in a change of environment, patience could be key. The longer Roma wait, the more leverage Everton may gain — provided they are prepared to act quickly.

Should Everton entertain a late January swap — or is this a deal best avoided altogether?