Bournemouth are in the hunt for Manchester City right-back Rico Lewis as Everton step up their interest in the 21-year-old England international. Nottingham Forest and Fulham are also chasing the defender, who has just one year left on his contract at the Etihad Stadium.
Bournemouth sit sixth in the Premier League with 57 points from 38 games, 28 points adrift of leaders Arsenal. They’ve scored 58 goals and conceded 54, leaving them with a +4 goal difference. Their last result came on 24 May 2026, a 1-1 draw at Nottingham Forest. Over their last five matches they’ve gone unbeaten, with four draws and one win, most recently beating Genoa 2-1 on 4 August 2026.
Everton’s interest gives the chase for Lewis a fresh twist. The Toffees are hunting for defensive cover after a shaky finish to last season, while Forest and Fulham both need right-back options. Lewis has started just 12 Premier League games this term but has impressed in cup runs and training sessions, according to insiders.
City may let him leave for free next summer, so rivals are circling now. Bournemouth’s need for a reliable right-back is clear after injuries to Ryan Fredericks and Adam Smith disrupted their backline. The Cherries have already brought in young talent like Lloyd Kelly and Chris Randall, but Lewis offers Premier League pedigree.
The transfer window is open until 1 September 2026, but Lewis’s contract expires in June 2027. Clubs can still bid for out-of-contract players, though City could demand a fee if they’re willing to sell early. Bournemouth’s hierarchy will weigh up Lewis’s age, wage demands and squad role before making a move.
Forest and Fulham have both been linked with Lewis for weeks. Forest’s need is acute after injuries to their full-backs, while Fulham’s interest reflects their push to strengthen defensively. Everton’s sudden involvement raises the stakes, though their own financial constraints could limit their options.
Bournemouth’s focus remains on shoring up the defence before the new season kicks off on 4 August 2026 against Genoa. With Fredericks and Smith still sidelined, the club may prioritise Lewis if talks progress. Manager Andoni Iraola will also monitor other targets, including free agents and loan deals.
The Cherries’ recent form-unbeaten in five-gives them momentum, but injuries and fixture congestion could derail their push for a top-six finish. Lewis wouldn’t solve everything, but he’d add depth and competition at right-back.
Bournemouth’s next move could come within days. If Everton table a bid or City blink, the race will heat up fast. For now, the Cherries are just one of four clubs chasing a player who might not stay at City beyond next summer.
