Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness recently offered a blunt assessment of the transfer rumours linking Borussia Dortmund midfielder Julian Brandt with a move to Goodison Park. Speaking exclusively to Football Insider on their Inside Track podcast, the veteran consultant expressed significant doubt regarding these reports.
Keith Wyness Dismisses Julian Brandt Everton Links
Wyness, who managed the club’s operations between 2004 and 2009, argued that the German international would not provide a genuine upgrade for the current Toffees squad. He specifically pointed toward the heavy financial burden of Brandt’s expected wages compared to his actual impact on the pitch. While acknowledging that the 29-year-old possesses talent, Wyness remained steadfast in his belief that the player does not fit the specific requirements of a Premier League midfield battle.
Furthermore, the ex-CEO shifted the conversation toward a more promising prospect, Arsenal starlet Myles Lewis-Skelly. He suggested that Everton would find much more success pursuing the versatile teenager rather than chasing the Dortmund playmaker.
Wyness gave a firm thumbs up to the idea of bringing the young Gunner to Merseyside, contrasting the realism of that deal against the Brandt speculation. He ultimately dismissed the German’s potential arrival as an unlikely and perhaps unnecessary expenditure for a club that needs to be incredibly smart with their recruitment strategy this summer.
Is Julian Brandt Really a Step Down for the Toffees Midfield?
The idea that Julian Brandt provides no upgrade seems like a remarkably bold claim. The German international has enjoyed a productive 2025/26 season with Borussia Dortmund, contributing 10 goals and 3 assists across all competitions. His technical grace remains his greatest strength, as he consistently finds space and delivers passes that break defensive lines. Conversely, his lack of defensive intensity and occasional inconsistency in physical duels often draw criticism from those who prefer a more combative engine room.
Everton currently rely on the industry of players like James Garner and the veteran presence of Idrissa Gana Gueye, alongside the creative spark of Jack Grealish on loan. Adding a player of Brandt’s pedigree usually signals ambition, yet I find myself agreeing with Wyness’s fiscal caution.
While Brandt is statistically superior to many current options, his high salary demands could hurt the club’s ability to balance the books. The club simply cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past by overpaying for established stars who might struggle with the sheer pace of English football at this stage of their careers. However, I feel like the Toffees will make a move for Brandt.
