£70k p/w Everton outcast could leave on loan as PL club in advanced talks

Everton are looking to trim their bloated squad by offloading players that are either surplus to requirements or are no longer part of the project. EFC centre back Mason Holgate could become one of the first exits as a number of clubs are keen on the Englishman.

Last season, Everton’s defence was well stacked with six centre backs – James Tarkowski, Yerry Mina, Michael Keane, Ben Godfrey, Conor Coady and Holgate. Because of the abundance of options in central defence, the Toffees sent Jarrad Branthwaite to PSV on a season long loan assignment.

Mina has left as a free agent after seeing his contract out at Goodison Park. Coady has returned to Wolves after the Toffees decided against activating the buy option for £4.5 million. Despite the departures of Coady and Mina, EFC still have five centre backs in their squad but more exits could be lined up.

Sheffield United in advanced talks to sign Everton defender Mason Holgate on loan

Earlier this month, a report claimed that the futures of Godfrey and Holgate remains uncertain. In an effort to reduce the squad size and trim the wage bill, EFC could look to offload more centre backs. With Branthwaite impressing during his loan, Sean Dyche might give him an opportunity to prove his worth in pre-season and if all things go well, he could remain a part of the squad for next season.

According to talkSPORT, newly promoted Sheffield United are in advanced talks to sign Holgate on a season long loan deal. The former Barnsley man has been told that he is free to leave Everton as the Merseysiders look to reduce their wage bill and make space for new arrivals this summer.

As per Yorkshire Live, Sheffield United are not the only side interested in Holgate. Nottingham Forest also maintains interest but at the moment the Blades are ahead of Nottingham in the race as they are have carried out advanced talks.

Holgate was reduced to a sporadic role in the 2022-23 season with the likes of Tarkowski, Coady, Keane, Godfrey and Mina, all got more game time than Holgate. The Englishman made just eight Premier League appearances, amounting to 509 minutes of Top Flight football. Even when he was given opportunities, the 26 year old could not make the desired impact and provide solidity in the backline.

If Holgate leaves on loan, EFC can reduce their wages by £70,000 per week and bring in a new player.

Will Mason Holgate leave EFC this summer?