Everton transfer window recap: Gray coup, Diaz failure, James Rodriguez dilemma and all deals

Luis Diaz was one of few missed Everton deals on and around the transfer deadline day

Missed Everton deals on and around transfer deadline day

Nathan Patterson

Everton wanted to add security to right back department and made a bid for Rangers full back Nathan Patterson which was knocked down. The Toffees made a second £8 million bid which was also rejected by Steven Gerrard’s side.

Even if a third bid was to arrive and be accepted by the Gers before the transfer deadline day, it would’ve have been impossible to sort out the medicals and contracts before the end of the window because the player was in isolation.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles

Following the failure in Patterson’s pursuit, Everton shifted their focus on Arsenal’s Ainsley Maitland-Niles. The Toffees made a loan bid with an option to buy but the Arsenal were not ready to let the Englishman leave.

This kick started an ugly saga where the 24 year old went public about leaving the club. Following showdown talks with manager Mikel Arteta on deadline day, the Spanish boss promised Maitland-Niles proper game time, Everton lost all hope as the versatile player would stay with the Gunners.

This has left the Royal Blues with scarce options at right back. Seamus Coleman is aging and will soon need a long term successor. Jonjoe Kenny isn’t entirely trusted as a backup.

Luis Diaz

Perhaps, this transfer failure will hurt the Toffees a lot. Rafa Benitez wanted to further strengthen the wings. Luis Diaz is an enticing winger who has been one of the driving forces at Porto and most recently shot to prominence at the Copa America for Colombia.

Everton were trying to resolve James Rodriguez’s future and proposed a deal which would see Everton pay a significant amount and send James on loan in return for Diaz. Even on transfer deadline day, Everton made the last push offering in excess of €30 million plus James on loan but a deal could not be reached and Diaz would stay at Porto.

How would you rate Everton’s transfer window?