Christantus Uche: Why Everton lead Real Betis & Newcastle in race for Getafe star

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Christantus Uche is once again back available in the summer transfer window after a largely forgettable time at Crystal Palace, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Super Eagles attacker left Spain for a loan spell in England last year but he is back at Getafe and facing another major decision about his future.

Uche, 23, spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Crystal Palace, hoping to establish himself in the Premier League. However, things did not go as planned. Palace decided not to activate the option to make the move permanent after Uche managed only 477 minutes across 22 appearances in all competitions.

His return to Getafe has immediately attracted attention from several clubs. Everton and Real Betis have emerged as the strongest contenders for his signature, while Newcastle United have fallen behind in the race despite earlier interest. AC Milan have also monitored the situation.

Getafe president Ángel Torres has already indicated that the club is prepared to listen to offers for the Nigerian. The Madrid-based side are looking to reshape their squad and reduce wage commitments ahead of the new season. Uche is currently one of the club’s most valuable assets, meaning a transfer could generate significant funds for new signings.

Real Betis have reportedly considered a package worth around €15 million for the versatile attacker. The Seville-based club admire his physical strength, mobility and ability to operate in several attacking positions. His performances in La Liga before moving to Crystal Palace convinced Betis that he could fit perfectly into their squad.

Meanwhile, Everton have been tracking the player closely and remain in regular contact with representatives involved in the deal. The Merseyside club believe Uche’s athletic style and Premier League experience make him an attractive option as they continue rebuilding their squad for the upcoming campaign.

Christantus Uche: Why Everton have moved ahead of Betis, Newcastle

Although Betis remain interested, Everton currently hold the strongest position in the race, largely because of Getafe’s transfer preference.

The Spanish club would rather sell Christantus Uche abroad than strengthen one of their direct La Liga rivals. Allowing a player of his quality to join Betis could potentially benefit a competitor in domestic competitions, something Getafe would prefer to avoid. That stance immediately gives Everton an advantage in negotiations.

Another important factor is the role available to the Nigerian. Everton can offer Uche a clearer pathway to regular first-team football. The club are actively searching for attacking reinforcements and view him as a player capable of making an immediate impact.

Newcastle’s interest, on the other hand, has cooled in recent weeks. While the Magpies admired Uche’s power and versatility earlier in the transfer window, competition for places at St James’ Park has become increasingly fierce. With several established attacking options already available, Newcastle are no longer pushing as aggressively as Everton.

Financially, Everton are also well positioned. While Betis have explored a deal worth around €15 million, Everton believe they can negotiate favourable terms with Getafe, especially given the Spanish club’s desire to sell outside La Liga.

The transfer is also being closely watched by AD Ceuta, Uche’s former club. When Getafe signed him in July 2024 for around €500,000, Ceuta retained 12.5 percent of any future sale. If Everton or another club complete a significant transfer, Ceuta could receive a substantial financial boost that would help strengthen their squad.

With Getafe open to selling, Newcastle stepping back and Betis facing resistance from the Spanish side, Everton currently appear best placed to secure the signature of one of Nigeria’s most promising attacking talents before the summer window closes.