The wide areas have been a focus of investment recently at Everton, with Jack Grealish, Tyler Dibling and Tyrique George all arriving this season, but uncertainty over Grealish’s future and Dwight McNeil’s expected departure mean further additions are being considered.
One name has emerged as a serious option. The 20-year-old winger only arrived at Vicarage Road last summer for a fee believed to be under £1million, a deal already being hailed as one of the smartest pieces of business of the Pozzo ownership. Less than a year later, his value has skyrocketed.
The rise of a Moroccan talent
Othmane Maamma’s journey to English football began at Montpellier, where he made 14 appearances in Ligue 1 before their relegation opened the door for a move. But it was on the international stage where he truly announced himself. The winger helped Morocco win the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in October and was the standout performer of the tournament, walking away with the Golden Ball as the best player. His remarkable year was capped when he was named African Young Player of the Year.
Watford assistant sporting director Valon Behrami admits even the club have been surprised by how quickly the youngster has adapted. “We saw his quality, of course, but his growth was so fast when he arrived back here after the World Cup,” he said. “What surprised me wasn’t the quality, but how fast he did this process.”
Described as “absolutely insane” and “explosive” by those who have watched him, Maamma has been a regular for Watford in the Championship this season, registering four goals and one assist in 20 appearances. His direct, pacey style and willingness to run at defenders has got fans on the edge of their seats.
Why Everton are watching closely
Scouts from Everton and Brentford have both been keeping close tabs on the exciting 20-year-old as his reputation continues to soar . According to Sportsboom, representatives from both clubs have been watching the winger regularly, with Watford tied to a long-term deal that runs until 2029, when he arrived last summer. That means the Hornets hold a strong position, with insiders saying it would take offers of at least £15million to even begin a conversation.
The Toffees are known for identifying emerging talent before their value explodes, and Maamma fits that profile. However, there is also recognition that David Moyes typically wants players who can strengthen his starting XI immediately. The club already have two young prospects in Dibling and George to develop, so any move for Maamma would need to make sense within the broader squad plan.
For now, the focus remains on Maamma’s development in Hertfordshire as Watford push for a playoff place. But with the summer window approaching and interest from multiple Premier League sides, the Moroccan wonderkid could become one of the more intriguing young transfers of the off-season.
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