After a nightmarish transfer deadline, Everton could be on their way to securing one of the Premier League’s biggest legends – Jamie Vardy. The 39-year-old striker is clubless and ready for new challenges.
Everton had anything but a calm end to the transfer window. The attempt to sign AS Monaco’s Florian Balogun failed at the last minute when the 25-year-old changed his mind. And as if that wasn’t enough: Iliman Ndiaye left the club for Manchester City in a deal worth £65 million – while Beto was sold to Fiorentina for £17 million.
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The result? David Moyes is left with Thierno Barry as the only remaining attacking player of senior stature.
Vardy on everyone’s lips
According to The Sun, Everton are now considering a surprise move to bring in Jamie Vardy on a free transfer. The striker left Italian club Cremonese after his contract expired, and is on the hunt for what is likely to be the last club of his legendary career.
Vardy turns 40 in January, but has no plans to hang up his boots anytime soon. Although he is no longer in his prime, his belief in his own abilities is alive and well – and with nine goals in his final season in the Premier League (2024/25), he has shown that he still has something to contribute.
Turned down Wrexham – and more offers await
The summer has seen rumours of everything from a shocking move to Brazilian side Sao Paulo, to a drama-filled bid from Wrexham on deadline day. However, Vardy turned down Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds’ bet, and is now considering several options – including from Italian Serie A and the American MLS league.
This is how Vardy thinks about the future
In a candid interview with Untold UK earlier this year, Vardy explained how he relates to the idea of quitting:
“Physically and mentally, football is a killer sport. It’s so tough on both body and mind that I just want to forget about it all. But of course I love it. If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be playing anymore,” he said.
And if his body is still up to scratch, he was clear:
“Luckily, my legs still say they’re in good shape,” he added with a smile.
When asked if he envisions a future as a coach, Vardy replied bluntly:
“No, absolutely not. I’ve never thought that far ahead. I’m the type of person who takes one day at a time – sleeps on it, and sees what tomorrow brings. I always have been, even if it annoys someone I know.
Everton on a desperate hunt
For Everton, this is as much about prestige as it is about necessity. Vardy has 145 goals in 342 games in the Premier League, and although age is starting to weigh on him, his confidence and will to win are still unmatched.
The question is whether Vardy will accept a second chance in England’s top division – or whether he would rather embark on a new adventure abroad. One thing is certain: history is far from finished.
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