For as much build-up as there was surrounding Everton's last transfer move, the final confirmation of French striker Thierno Barry felt satisfying for supporters to see it get over the line. But reports are suggesting that the club's next transfer might lack a similar feeling.
After rumors began about Everton's interest in Bournemouth goalkeeper Mark Travers, it looks like the transfer is already nearing completion, with the Liverpool Echo reporting that the 'keeper is set for a medical with the club, usually the final step before announcing the transfer.
The 26-year-old Ireland international spent the second half of last season on loan with Middlesbrough in the Championship, starting 17 matches for Boro during the spell. He also featured in five Premier League matches for Bournemouth prior to joining the North Yorkshire club.
Travers hasn't played in a match for Ireland since 2023, which makes the decision to join Everton a peculiar one. With England's no.1 Jordan Pickford entrenched as the Toffees' starter between the sticks, there isn't a clear path to match time for Travers outside of some early cup matches.
Yet, with Bournemouth just signing Djordje Petrovic from Chelsea for £25 million, it's possible that even those matches would not be available to Travers, and so he considers the no.2 position at Everton to be better than being dropped down the pecking order with the Cherries.
The confirmation of the signing should be coming soon, and while it isn't the most exciting of moves, it is a necessary one for Everton, having lost both of the club's backup goalkeepers from last year after Joao Virginia and Asmir Begovic left on expiring contracts this summer.
The deal is reported to cost Everton just £4 million, and Travers is signing a four-year contract with the Toffees.
Travers appears to be a capable shot stopper who should be able to do the job should he be called upon. Jordan Pickford has been a rock at the back for Everton, so there shouldn't be many chances, but for a backup goalkeeper, the Irishman looks to be a reasonable one.