Everton has completed three permanent signings during the summer transfer window, but the club is reportedly looking to secure two additional deals to boost squad morale ahead of the new season. The team’s performance in the latter part of the previous season, particularly the losses to Sunderland and Tottenham Hotspur, left many supporters feeling disheartened. However, recent transfer activity has somewhat improved the mood among the fanbase.
The club has already made key additions, including versatile midfielder Merlin Rohl, whose permanent move was confirmed after Everton secured their Premier League safety. Winger Tyrique George has also returned to Merseyside permanently after a renegotiated deal with Chelsea. Furthermore, Everton successfully signed Hayden Hackney, the Championship Player of the Season from Middlesbrough, despite competition from other clubs.
Addressing defensive needs
A new right-back remains a priority for Everton, with the club aiming to finalise a signing before their opening match against Crystal Palace on August 22. The departure of Seamus Coleman has highlighted the need for reinforcements in this position, especially if Nathan Patterson also leaves. While Jake O’Brien is an option, he is not a natural right-back, indicating a clear need for a specialist.
Several names have been linked with a move to Everton, including Raoul Bellanova, Guela Doue, Djed Spence, Ben White, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The club is under pressure to identify and secure a right-back soon, ideally allowing them to participate in pre-season training. The World Cup and a potentially inflated domestic transfer market have contributed to a slower transfer window.
Manager David Moyes reportedly experimented with his squad during a pre-season friendly against Dundee, starting Merlin Rohl at right-back and deploying Tyrique George as a centre-forward. These tactical decisions could be interpreted as Moyes signalling the need for a new striker and a right-back to the club’s board.
Potential return of Jack Grealish
The return of Jack Grealish is considered another significant target for Everton. Grealish’s loan spell with the club ended prematurely due to a serious injury, but he is reportedly nearing a return to training at Manchester City. His recovery progress is a key factor in any potential move.
Grealish, who is 30 years old, is in the final year of his contract with Manchester City. While Everton would likely prefer another loan deal, City is reportedly seeking a permanent sale. The financial implications of a deal for Grealish are substantial, given his reported weekly earnings of £300,000.
Despite the complexities, Grealish’s return would be popular among both his teammates and the fanbase, especially after his performance in the first half of last season, where he scored two match-winning goals and provided six assists.
Transfer market activity
The transfer window has seen some activity for Everton, but there is a sense that more needs to be done. The early signings of Hayden Hackney and Tyrique George set an initial tone, but the pace has since slowed. The club is aiming to complete further deals before the start of the Premier League season.
There is also speculation surrounding winger Iliman Ndiaye. While he has reportedly rejected multiple contract offers from Everton, suggesting a desire for Champions League football, his potential sale could generate significant funds. Everton reportedly paid around £15 million for the Senegalese international, and reports suggest the club could demand over £60 million for him.
Several top clubs, including Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Manchester United, are reportedly in the market for a winger, and Ndiaye could be a target for them. His work rate and versatility are considered assets, making him a suitable option for teams like Aston Villa, who are looking for a replacement for Morgan Rogers.
The club’s transfer plans are being assessed a month before their opening fixture against Crystal Palace on August 22.
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Source: liverpoolecho.co.uk
Sam Whitlock is a Sports News Writer at News-GB.org. He moved from local newspapers into digital sport. He focuses on rugby union, golf and boxing and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Gloucestershire and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Gloucester, he plays amateur rugby and follows the fight game. “Clarity beats cleverness in breaking sport news.”