The annual drama of the transfer window is the essential adrenaline shot of the football season. Even if transfer gurus like Fabrizio Romano eliminate the shock factor, the relentless news cycle remains intoxicating.
With the January window now less than two months away, it's the perfect time to dive deep and predict the early ins and outs surrounding Everton FC.
A samba star up front
With Everton desperately requiring attacking reinforcement, the logical solution seems to lie in the fertile grounds of Brazilian football.
Over the last month, speculation has swirled around a host of Samba strikers. The most prominent names, including an established star like Gabriel Jesus, have dominated transfer gossip. Furthermore, a remarkable homecoming for fan favourite Richarlison has been touted by the English media. And, perhaps most intriguingly, the lack of playing time for Real Madrid prospect Endrick has even brought his name into the frame.
The constant volume of these high-profile links, combined with the current first-team goal shortage, signals that a major striking acquisition is now a definite possibility. I have always liked a Brazilian.
It is a "no" to cashing in on our main star
Jarrad Branthwaite has yet to feature this season due to an ongoing hamstring injury, but that hasn’t stopped the transfer speculation from heating up ahead of the upcoming window. Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea are all reportedly keeping tabs on the 21-year-old defender.
It is only a matter of time before Chelsea open their cheque book again and make the first move in January, likely to replace Levi Colwill, who is out for the season.
New contracts for the stars
The most consistent performer of the season is a player few expected to shine back in August. James Garner has delivered at a high level across multiple positions, both full-back roles as well as central midfield, showcasing his versatility and reliability.
His contract, like Vitalii Mykolenko’s, is set to expire in the summer of 2026. However, both players are expected to put an end to speculation from abroad and within the Premier League by signing new deals at the Hill Dickinson, committing their long-term futures to Everton.
Of all the predictions, this is probably the most likely, as the club will be determined not to lose two key players at the end of their contracts for free. But if they show a resistance to signing new deals, then there is a likelihood that a January exit could happen.
Pack your bags, McNeil
Once viewed by fans as a clear starter, this Everton favourite has slipped down the pecking order under David Moyes and now looks set to leave permanently in January.
With Dwight McNeil currently third or even fourth choice on the right wing, regular starts have been hard to come by, and he is expected to seek a move, either on loan or permanently, when the window opens.
A return to Burnley would make sense, although he may find more consistent playing time with a Championship side.