Everton have identified Sheffield United ace Gustavo Hamer as a possible transfer target, as the club looks to strengthen in the summer transfer window.
The Toffees have enjoyed a bright start to David Moyes’ second tenure and have turned their Premier League fortunes around under his guidance.
However, adding quality to their midfield seems to be important for Everton as they look to carry on their good form into next season and push up the table.
A substantial bid will no doubt be required to secure Hamer’s services – due to his importance and contributions to Sheffield United this season.
How has Hamer performed this season?
The Dutch international has been a pivotal part of Sheffield United’s third-place finish in the Championship this season, notching nine goals and seven assists in all competitions from midfield.
So much so, Hamer recently scooped the Championship Player of the Season award for his efforts, edging out Burnley shot-stopper James Trafford and Leeds United winger Daniel James.
The 27-year-old has clearly been a standout player for the Blades this season, especially from a creative point of view. He has averaged 2.06 key passes per 90, putting him in the top 2% of players in the division.
That being said, due to Hamer being key to Sheffield United’s success this season, a large transfer sum from Everton will likely be required to convince the second-tier side to sell.
However, if the Blades fail to gain promotion to the top-flight through the Championship play-offs, they could lose their star man at a reduced price, as he clearly has the ability to play in the Premier League and financial implications will come into play.
How did Hamer fare last time out in the Premier League?
After signing for Sheffield United from Coventry City in August 2023, Hamer’s debut top-flight season ended in disaster for the club – breaking the record for most goals conceded by letting in 104 in 38 games and finishing bottom of the league.
However, the Blades number eight’s campaign was bright, all things considered.
He scored four goals and recorded seven assists in 36 games for Sheffield United, in a side that only scored 35 times all season.
Therefore, Hamer clearly possesses the quality to play Premier League football for Everton, should they choose to secure his services.
Where will Hamer fit into Everton’s midfield?
Everton’s move to new stadium Bramley Dock during the summer could be a catalyst for change for Moyes’ side – with eight players entering the last few weeks of their contracts going into the final four games of the campaign.
Two of those players are midfielders Idrissa Gueye and Abdoulaye Doucouré, meaning replacements will be needed should the Toffees not offer them new deals. The pair have played 63 Premier League games between them in the 2024/25 season, so signing top-flight ready players to fill in for them should be a priority for Moyes.
Since returning to Merseyside after Sean Dyche’s dismissal, the Scotsman has opted to use Gueye and James Garner deeper in midfield, with Doucouré in a more advanced role.
Hamer could slot into the Mali internationals’ attacking midfield role, due to his creative nature and eye for goal – averaging 1.77 shots per 90 for the Blades this season, putting him in the top 8% of Championship players.
Therefore, Hamer could be a fantastic addition to Everton’s squad next season, but may come with a hefty transfer fee, regardless of his current sides league status in the 2025/26 campaign.