Everton have wasted little time strengthening their squad after a disappointing 13th-place Premier League finish last season.
David Moyes has already landed his first major signing of the summer after completing a deal for Middlesbrough captain Hayden Hackney.
The midfielder joined the Toffees on a five-year contract in a deal worth an initial £16.5 million, with add-ons potentially taking the package close to £25 million.
Everton beat Manchester United to Hackney’s signature, with the Championship Player of the Season revealing Moyes’ track record of developing EFL talent played a key role in his decision.
The Merseyside club now appear ready to challenge Manchester United for another midfield target.
Richard Rios has attracted growing interest following another impressive season with Benfica. The Colombia international remains under contract until 2030.
Also, his contract is protected by a €100 million release clause, although Benfica are now open to listening to exceptional offers.
According to Salvatore Ferrante, Everton have joined the race to sign Rios alongside Fulham and Bournemouth. But Napoli remain the Italian club pushing hardest for his signature.
Manchester United have tracked the 26-year-old for several weeks after identifying him as a potential midfield addition.
However, Everton’s arrival has increased the competition for one of Benfica’s most sought-after players.
Despite the growing list of admirers, no Premier League club has progressed beyond the enquiry stage.
Ferrante also reports that, if Rios leaves Benfica this summer, his preferred destination would be Napoli because of the opportunity to play UEFA Champions League football.
Nevertheless, interest in Rios continues to grow, as Everton have now joined the queue. They will be looking to beat Manchester United to another midfield signing following the arrival of Hackney.
🚨 Everton have entered the race for Benfica midfielder Richard Ríos. 🇨🇴
Bournemouth and Fulham are also keen, but Napoli remain ahead, with Ríos said to prefer a move there due to Champions League football. 🇮🇹
(Source: Sport Witness) pic.twitter.com/PxfIppcWTS
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) July 3, 2026
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