- Kevin Pedro has a contract running until July 2030.
- The 20-year-old has two goals in 13 starts this season for St-Etienne.
- Young Frenchman would be a cheaper alternative to Ben White.
Everton are casting their net wide for defensive reinforcements this summer. Right‑back and centre‑back are both positions David Moyes wants to strengthen, with Seamus Coleman approaching the end of his career, Nathan Patterson struggling for fitness, and Michael Keane’s contract expiring. One name that has emerged is Saint‑Etienne’s versatile young defender Kevin Pedro.
The 20‑year‑old has been described by French outlet Jeunes Footeux as the “revelation of the season in Ligue 2”. He has made 19 appearances for the club this season in all competitions. Operating mainly as a right‑back but also featuring at centre‑back, Kevin Pedro has garnered attention from many clubs including Bournemouth.
Everton join scouting race for Kevin Pedro
According to Jeunes Footeux, Everton and Bournemouth have both sent scouts to watch Pedro closely. They are joined by Bayer Leverkusen, Rennes, Lille and Strasbourg, all of whom have also dispatched representatives to assess the France Under‑19 international.
Pedro initially joined Saint‑Etienne’s academy in 2021 and made his first‑team debut in August 2024. He has since become a regular starter, with the majority of his appearances coming in this calendar year. In January, he signed a new contract that runs until 2030, reflecting the club’s belief in his potential.
Internally, Saint‑Etienne, led by president Ivan Gazidis, have no intention of selling. Their priority is to win promotion back to Ligue 1, and they see Pedro as central to that project.
According to the report, the club will only change their stance if an “off‑market” offer arrives – a fee so high they cannot refuse. For now, there is no indication that Everton or any other club is ready to meet that threshold.
Is Pedro a cheaper alternative to Ben White?
Pedro’s ability to cover both right‑back and centre‑back makes him an attractive option. Everton have been linked with Arsenal’s Ben White, who offers similar versatility but would command a much higher fee and wages. Kevin Pedro would represent a lower‑cost, higher‑upside gamble.
However, Saint‑Etienne’s resistance is real. The same approach was applied last summer when offers came in for other young talents but the club held firm. Pedro is under contract until 2030, so there is no pressure to sell.
For Everton, the message is clear. Interest alone will not be enough. If Moyes and The Friedkin Group decide that Kevin Pedro is the right profile, they will need to table a bid that forces Saint‑Etienne to reconsider.
At this stage, that figure has not been mentioned. But with European football potentially on the horizon, Everton are doing their homework to bolster their squad and Kevin Pedro is firmly on their list.
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