Behind Dominic Calvert-Lewin, the depth chart at the center-forward spot is thin for Everton. Adding to that DCL has played less than half the matches in the last two seasons, the situation has become dire for Everton. With Neal Maupay rumored to leave and with most fans concurring with that idea because of poor performance, there is not much left in the squad. Ellis Simms was sold to Coventry City for a relatively small fee. That leaves Tom Cannon, a 20-year-old Irishman with little to no premier league experience. Bringing in Arnaut Danjuma on loan will ease the concerns of Evertonians but more is needed.
Cannon spent the second half of last season with Championship side Preston Noth End. He appeared in 21 games scoring 8 goals and adding 1 assist. Preston Manager Ryan Lowe has already voiced his desire to have Cannon back in his squad. Sean Dyche should keep an eye on the youngster to assess his ability to contribute to the first team.
According to Inside Futbol, Everton has made that decision and will let Cannon out on loan to continue his development. This means that Dyche is confident he will bring in at least another forward this transfer window to ensure the squad is ready to tackle another Premier League campaign. This could be a risky play if EFC let Cannon go but do not bring in other attacking options. It’s not like Tom Cannon is an important player for the senior team but because of the little depth, the situation becomes more delicate.
Everton make Tom Cannon decision
As for Cannon, there are many clubs interested in his services. Both Stoke City and Birmingham City have expressed interest. Birmingham in particular is said to have made contact with Dyche and is willing to pay a substantial loan fee for the striker. They are pushing hard to make a deal happen. Sunderland is also said to be interested but in a permanent transfer rather than a loan deal.
If Cannon does end up going out on loan, that is the right decision. He is a young player with good potential who needs minutes to level up. The fact that many teams are interested in him is a good sign and that loaning him out would be the best route.
However, the focus for EFC needs to be on finishing the transfer window strong by bringing in another attacking player or two and another center-back. We are approaching two weeks away from matchday one against Fulham, and more work needs to be done.
Should EFC loan Tom Cannon to Preston North End?