Everton in the hunt for attacking reinforcements in January

So far this season the biggest problem Everton have had is preventing goals with a terrible start seeing the Blues concede thirteen in the first four matches, which unsurprisingly were all lost.

Since then though the team have steadied the ship with the next four games only yielding two more goals let in as the Toffees went unbeaten.

Meanwhile, up front Everton have actually offered a more consistent threat than they did for much of the last campaign, but are still missing an unacceptable number of chances.

The addition of Iliman Ndiaye in particular has been a key reason for this improved attacking productivity as the Frenchman has injected pace, creativity and a greater goal threat.

However, he has only two goals so far, although if he was playing more centrally (as I have argued he should) then I think that will improve.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has continued to frustrate missing a slew of chances again so far this season including several gilt-edged ones in the 2-0 win at Ipswich Town.

His future is uncertain as his current deal runs out next summer. The club have offered Calvert-Lewin a new contract, which so far he has not signed.

So the Blues risk losing him for nothing next year, unless he puts pen to paper - something that seems unlikely - or they sell him in January.

Letting their number one centre-forward leave mid-season would certainly be risky, but can the Everton afford to see him go in 2025 without getting a fee at all?

The other uncertain factor in all this is the takeover by Dan Friedkin's Group (TFG), which seems likely be completed by the end of this calendar year.

If this timetable is correct, then TFG might well be able to provide at least some initial funds to help Kevin Thelwell and Sean Dyche strengthen in the New Year transfer window.

There are issues around Everton's continuing PSR compliance with claims the club might still fall foul of these controversial regulations.

That would restrict any spending but there could still be room for some activity in the transfer market.

Reports claim the Toffees are scouting various potential targets have surfaced and certainly if possible reinforcing the Blues still erratic attack would be benificial.