Merlin Roehl in action for Freiburg 2025 - joining Everton

Everton Sign 22-Year-Old Midfielder Röhl in €25m Package

John William Last updated: Sep 1, 2025, 2:21 pm
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Image: IMAGO / DeFodi Images

Everton have completed a deal to sign Freiburg midfielder Merlin Röhl on loan with an obligation to buy set at €25m. The player is undergoing his medical today.

Everton have struck a late-window deal with SC Freiburg to sign 22-year-old midfielder Merlin Röhl. Florian Plettenberg reports that the move is structured as a loan with an obligation to buy for €25m, securing Everton long-term cover in midfield.

Röhl is currently undergoing his medical before being officially announced as David Moyes’s latest signing. The midfielder featured 20 times for Freiburg in the Bundesliga last season, registering one assist.

Everton’s Deadline Day Move

With depth in midfield a concern for Moyes, Röhl has been identified as a long-term project who can add versatility and energy. The loan with obligation structure allows Everton to spread the financial impact of the €25m fee.

“Merlin Röhl to Everton — done deal! Loan with €25m obligation to buy agreed with Freiburg. Medical ongoing.” — Florian Plettenberg

The signing is seen as part of Everton’s wider rebuild, bringing in young talent that can be developed while still addressing immediate needs.

Merlin Röhl — 2024/25 Season at Freiburg

Stat (2024/25) Merlin Röhl
Appearances 20
Goals 0
Assists 1
Tackles Won 17
Interceptions 12
Pass Accuracy 83%
Average Rating 6.7

source: sofascore season data – 2024/25

While Röhl’s attacking output was limited, his work off the ball, pressing intensity and positional discipline made him a reliable squad player in Germany. Everton are betting on his development curve continuing in England.

Analyst Verdict

FootballPlace analyst John William said:

“This is a smart, structured deal for Everton. Röhl isn’t a star yet, but he has the athletic profile Moyes likes. The €25m obligation means they’re committing long-term, which shows belief in his potential.”

He added:

“Everton need legs and energy in midfield. Röhl’s defensive numbers suggest he can adapt quickly, but he’ll need time to adjust to Premier League tempo. Fans should view this as an investment signing rather than an instant game-changer.”

Key Insights

  • Everton complete deal for Freiburg’s Merlin Röhl.
  • Loan with obligation to buy worth €25m.
  • Röhl undergoing medical today.
  • 20 appearances for Freiburg last season with 1 assist.
  • Seen as a long-term midfield project for David Moyes.

What’s Next?

Röhl is expected to be announced officially after his medical and will link up with the squad following the international break. Moyes is likely to integrate him gradually, with Röhl providing depth in midfield competitions and potentially featuring in cup fixtures first.

For Freiburg, the deal brings in significant funds, with the obligation guaranteeing a full sale next summer.

Is Merlin Röhl the right kind of midfield investment for Everton’s long-term rebuild?

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