Lincoln City could have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Manchester United striker Ethan Wheatley after Everton reportedly withdrew from the race for his signature.
The 20-year-old has been linked with both clubs during the transfer window, but the Premier League side have now decided to prioritise their available funds elsewhere.
According to the latest report, Everton had discussed a possible package involving an initial fee, add-ons and a sell-on percentage. However, with another four first-team additions wanted at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, they have now pulled out of the prospective deal.
That could leave City with a clearer path to Wheatley, although there is no suggestion yet that an agreement has been reached with Manchester United or the player.
Wheatley fits City’s recruitment model
Wheatley is a 6ft 3in centre-forward who has represented England at under-20 level and scored regularly during his progression through Manchester United’s academy. He became the club’s 250th academy graduate when making his senior debut against Sheffield United in April 2024.
He has since gained senior experience through loan spells with Walsall, Northampton Town and Bradford City. His most productive period came at Northampton, where he scored three times in 22 League One appearances during the second half of the 2024/25 campaign.
The striker spent the opening part of last season with Bradford, making 12 league appearances, before returning to Old Trafford. He has made three senior appearances for Manchester United but would face considerable competition for regular football if he remained with the Premier League club.
At 20, Wheatley would arrive as another loan addition with significant potential, giving him the opportunity to continue his development through regular Championship football. City have already used the loan market to strengthen their attacking options this summer, bringing in Mason Melia and Tanto Olaofe.
His physical profile would provide Chris Cohen and Tom Shaw with another option at the top end of the pitch. Ben House and Freddie Draper offer a strong focal point, while Melia and Olaofe bring different qualities, but the 6ft 3in Wheatley would add further height, strength and competition across City’s forward line – Ryan Oné style.
What could it mean for Tyrese Shade?
Should City advance their interest in Wheatley, it could also have implications for the pursuit of Burton Albion attacker Tyrese Shade. The Imps have reportedly had more than one offer rejected for the 26-year-old, with Burton determined to protect the value of one of their leading players.
Shade is not an identical alternative to Wheatley. He is primarily a winger who can operate across the forward line, whereas Wheatley is a conventional centre-forward. However, one would require a substantial financial commitment at a time when City are attempting to complete the final pieces of their squad, while the other would be a temporary solution.
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