Everton are once again chasing AS Saint-Étienne winger Zuriko Davitashvili, according to a recent report by Foot-Sur7, which claims the information as its own. The Toffees first entered the picture back in January, when Sport Witness reported their interest, at a time Benfica were also pushing hard for a deal. Neither side managed to secure an agreement then, and the situation has since grown considerably more crowded.
Everton join five-club race for €15m Georgian winger
Davitashvili has put together a compelling season in Ligue 2, registering 15 goals and five assists across 31 appearances for Saint-Étienne, numbers that have drawn serious attention across Europe. Six clubs are now reported to be monitoring the 25-year-old Georgia international: Everton, Benfica, Olympiacos, AS Monaco, Lille, and Beşiktaş are all said to be in the frame.
Everton face stiff competition in a race with a firm deadline
Saint-Étienne finished third in Ligue 2 and face OGC Nice in a two-legged playoff, with the second leg set for 29 May. That date carries real importance for every interested club, because Saint-Étienne’s top-flight status directly determines Davitashvili’s asking price.
The French club are already aware that keeping him without returning to Ligue 1 is extremely difficult. A sale this summer would bring at least €15 million, though the fee climbs higher if promotion is secured. Among the six suitors, Lille hold a structural advantage, having already booked their place in next season’s Champions League.
What should Everton realistically do this summer?
David Moyes‘ side genuinely need wide creativity, and Davitashvili’s goal output in a lower division is encouraging rather than definitive proof. At €15 million, the fee sits at a reasonable level for a club still operating under financial scrutiny.
Competing against Champions League-bound Lille for the same player is a tough position. However, Everton‘s realistic path here is to move quickly the moment Saint-Étienne’s playoff outcome is confirmed, before richer clubs accelerate. Waiting will cost the Toffees the advantage. If the budget is committed to one forward this window, a direct, early bid for a proven winger with genuine end-product makes far more sense than pursuing established names outside Everton’s financial reach.
