Everton are reportedly exploring a surprise move for Kevin De Bruyne, one of the most successful midfielders in Premier League history.

The Belgian is now 35 and playing in Serie A, but the possibility of a return to England in January has already caught the attention of supporters.

According to reports in Italy, Everton have made an initial enquiry about his availability. That does not mean a deal is close, though, and there are still several questions over whether the move could happen.

What Everton Have Reportedly Done

The story was first reported by Italian outlet Calciomercato.it, which claimed Everton had contacted De Bruyne's representatives to find out how realistic a January move might be.

The club is exploring a move that could see the Belgian return to the Premier League and take on an important role under David Moyes. It is not yet clear what kind of deal Everton might consider.

There has been no confirmation of whether they would look at a loan or a permanent transfer. Napoli have also not indicated that they are willing to let him leave, and De Bruyne has not publicly expressed an interest in joining Everton.

Moyes, meanwhile, played down the prospect of January activity before Everton's recent win over Coventry City. Asked whether the club had plans to strengthen, he said:

"No. At the moment, there's no plans for January, no."

His response does not necessarily rule out an informal enquiry, but it offers little reason to believe Everton are close to making a move.

De Bruyne joined Napoli on a free transfer from Manchester City in June 2025. His contract runs until 2027, with the Italian club holding an option to extend it by another year. Napoli are therefore in a strong position and have no immediate need to sell.

Reports suggest they could demand a transfer fee if Everton pursue their interest, although negotiations may be more realistic in the summer.

Where De Bruyne Could Fit at Everton

Everton went into the international break sixth in the Premier League after beating Coventry City 3-1. Thierno Barry scored twice in that match, taking his tally to 10 goals in all competitions.

The team has made a decent start to the season, and a midfielder with De Bruyne's vision and passing ability would give Moyes another way to create chances for Barry.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has been Everton's main option in that position since arriving from Chelsea, while Carlos Alcaraz also provides an alternative. De Bruyne, however, would bring a level of experience and creativity that few players in the squad can match.

Mondo Napoli's report suggests Everton could build much of their attacking play around him. That would be an attractive proposition, particularly if De Bruyne is looking for a central role and regular involvement. There are still practical questions to consider.

At 35, he would need to cope with the physical demands of Moyes' midfield, and Everton would want to be confident that he could stay fit and contribute consistently. His time in Italy has reportedly had its difficulties.

That alone does not mean he is looking for a way out of Napoli.

For now, the club will return to action against Brentford when the Premier League resumes, while the January window will reveal whether their interest in De Bruyne goes any further.