The new Doucoure: Everton in race to sign “magic” £30m McAtee alternative
Everton eye more attacking reinforcements after signing Thierno Barry
Everton have already been active in the summer transfer market, securing the signing of centre-forward Thierno Barry—widely seen as a direct replacement for Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
However, the Toffees are far from finished in the attacking department. The club is reportedly targeting an attacking midfielder to further strengthen their squad.
One player firmly on Everton’s radar is Manchester City academy graduate and England Under-21 captain James McAtee.
The club is keen to wrap up a deal for the talented youngster, but they face stiff competition from West Ham United, meaning a move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium (formerly Bramley-Moore Dock) is far from certain.
If McAtee proves out of reach, Everton are expected to pivot toward another Premier League midfielder.
Jacob Ramsey emerges as McAtee alternative
Should Everton miss out on McAtee, they are prepared to battle for an alternative target—Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey. According to The Telegraph, West Ham are also showing interest in the 24-year-old, while Nottingham Forest have reportedly made him a priority, potentially as a replacement for Morgan Gibbs-White.
Ramsey, a product of the Villa academy and lifelong fan of the club, has been on Everton’s radar before—and their interest in him remains strong. Villa are expected to demand up to £30 million for the midfielder.
Why Jacob Ramsey would be a smart addition
At 24, Ramsey has already accumulated significant Premier League experience. Despite some injury setbacks, he’s developed a solid reputation, with football analyst Statman Dave once describing him as a “magic” player.
Last season, Ramsey featured in 46 matches across all competitions, contributing four goals and seven assists—six of those coming in the league.
His 2022/23 campaign was even more impressive, with six goals and seven assists in 35 Premier League appearances, including a memorable winner against Southampton.
Interestingly, FBref data shows Ramsey shares statistical and stylistic similarities with former Everton star Abdoulaye Doucoure, especially in his goal involvement and key passing metrics.
Doucoure comparison highlights Ramsey’s value
Doucoure was crucial for Everton—scoring 21 goals and providing 14 assists in 166 appearances, including the unforgettable goal that secured Premier League survival in 2023 against Bournemouth.
Under David Moyes last season, Doucoure played just 16 league games but still managed three goals and two assists. Ramsey’s numbers are strikingly comparable: last season, he averaged 0.22 goals and assists per 90 minutes and 1.17 key passes—higher than Doucoure’s 0.18 goals/assists and 0.98 key passes.
Ramsey also excels in ball-carrying, offering another dimension to his game—an asset that would suit Moyes’ tactical approach.
Conclusion: A Premier League-proven bargain?
If Everton can land Ramsey for around £30 million, they’d be adding a proven Premier League performer with the right profile to replace or complement Doucoure.
Whether or not a deal for McAtee materialises, Ramsey looks like a highly viable—and potentially valuable—alternative.
