Everton among clubs monitoring Nathan Zézé as Saudi exit looms

Everton are among several Premier League clubs monitoring FC Neom defender Nathan Zézé as the French youngster weighs up a return to European football.

According to L'Equipe, the 21-year-old centre-back is attracting growing interest after just one season in the Saudi Pro League, with Everton, Bournemouth and Crystal Palace all keeping a close eye on his situation.

While no formal negotiations have begun, the number of clubs tracking Zézé continues to increase as uncertainty surrounds his future in Saudi Arabia.

L'Equipe reports that Zézé is one of several players considering leaving Saudi Arabia following growing instability in the region.

The former Nantes defender impressed during his first season with FC Neom after completing a €20 million move last summer, finishing among the Saudi Pro League's highest-rated defenders.

A return to Europe could also strengthen his ambitions of breaking into France's senior national team after becoming a regular for the Under-21s under Gérald Baticle.

Everton are one of several clubs monitoring developments, although the Toffees are yet to make an official approach.

Bournemouth and Crystal Palace are also credited with interest from the Premier League, while Inter Milan have been informed of Zézé's availability after previously tracking him during his time at Nantes.

Saudi giants Al-Hilal remain another potential destination and could offer financial terms that European clubs would struggle to match.

For now, all interested sides are understood to be assessing the situation rather than actively negotiating with FC Neom.

FC Neom are reportedly looking to generate funds through player sales before strengthening their squad later in the transfer window.

That could make Zézé one of the club's most valuable assets after his impressive debut campaign in Saudi Arabia.

Whether Everton decide to progress their interest may depend on their wider transfer priorities, with central defence not currently viewed as the most urgent area requiring reinforcement.

Zézé's future appears increasingly uncertain as interest from Europe gathers pace. Everton are monitoring the situation, but unless their defensive plans change, the Merseyside club may be reluctant to enter a competitive race for a player likely to attract significant attention from across Europe.

Clubs are expected to continue assessing Zézé's situation before deciding whether to submit formal offers. FC Neom may be open to a sale as they look to raise funds, while Everton are likely to determine whether strengthening at centre-back becomes a priority later in the transfer window.