Everton’s pursuit of Brooke Norton-Cuffy has reportedly come to an end before it ever really began, according to The i Paper, as detailed by Transfer Feed. The Toffees had been monitoring the 22-year-old right-back throughout the summer transfer window, but now a move appears unlikely.
Everton Misses Out as Brooke Norton-Cuffy Deal Falls Apart
Everton kept a close eye on Norton-Cuffy as he played for Genoa during the 2025/26 Serie A season. He made 27 appearances, starting 25 of those matches, and scored two goals while providing one assist over 2,216 minutes. His statistics also include three yellow cards and one red card, reflecting his challenging year in Italy. His FotMob average rating of 6.8 suggests he did not particularly stand out in elite football circles.
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The context of his performances is crucial. Genoa struggles to compete in the top half of Serie A, and this must be considered when evaluating Norton-Cuffy’s current standing as a footballer.
Everton Faces Right-Back Dilemma This Summer
The Toffees need significant improvements in their recruitment efforts. Coach David Moyes is looking for width, dynamism, and defensive stability on the flanks. While Norton-Cuffy fits the profile of a progressive, attack-minded full-back, his Serie A numbers do not indicate he is ready to take over a major role in the Premier League. With just two goals and one assist in 27 appearances, plus a sending-off, it seems he is still working to establish himself at a higher level.
T4O Analysis: Setback for Everton but Not a Crisis
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 27: Brooke Norton-Cuffy of Coventry City looks on as he warms up prior to the Sky Bet Championship Play-Off Final between Coventry City and Luton Town at Wembley Stadium on May 27, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
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Missing out on Norton-Cuffy is not the disaster some fans might perceive it to be. He is a decent player—technically competent and athletic, capable of making forward runs. However, he has yet to prove he can meet the performance standards required by Everton if they intend to improve their standing in the Premier League.
His market value is estimated at around €15 million. Genoa is known for being tough negotiators, which means Everton may have avoided a hefty fee, potentially a silver lining in this situation.
The pressing question is where Everton’s recruitment team will look next. Better right-back options are available across Europe at comparable prices, offering players with proven top-flight experience, robust defensive capabilities, and readiness for the Premier League. A player who has recently spent time in the lower echelons of Serie A does not align with the profile of a transformative signing.
Everton should consider targeting experienced players from major leagues instead of treating this failed deal as a significant setback. Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga have numerous viable alternatives. Thus, the loss of Norton-Cuffy may not be as substantial as some fans believe.