Reports from Everton sources indicate that the squad will need at least ten new signings to build a team capable of competing in the Premier League next season.
David Moyes and the transfer committee face a major challenge: they need men in door while securing quality additions and staying within budget to avoid any PSR penalties, with the new season fast approaching.
It’s been revealed that Thierno Barry is close to joining, especially after transfer expert Fabrizio Romano gave his trademark “Here we go” to the deal in recent days. However, Everton have missed out on Kenny Tete, who ultimately chose to stay at Fulham despite earlier interest. So it is a wonder what positions could be earmarked to improve the squad, and ultimately the first team.
Starting at the back, a new goalkeeper is a clear priority. While any incoming signing will serve as backup to Jordan Pickford, the departures of Asmir Begovic and João Virgínia have left the squad short in this position.
Relying solely on Harry Tyrer would be risky, given his lack of Premier League experience and proven quality at this level. However, bringing in an experienced keeper with top-flight credentials won’t come cheap, so Everton are expected to prioritise free agents who are willing to be reliable squad players rather than demanding a starting role.
Defence remains a tricky area for Everton. They’ve chased a new right-back all summer, but with Jake O’Brien, Nathan Patterson, a hopefully fit Seamus Coleman, and James Garner as cover, that spot looks fine for now, upgrades can wait until a future transfer window.
Centre-back is more concerning. James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite both missed the run-in with muscle injuries, hinting that their workload is taking its toll. Michael Keane is likely to extend his deal and stay as backup, but a reliable third or fourth choice is badly needed. Eli Campbell could be eased in as a fifth option through cup games.
However, left-back is the biggest worry. With only Vitaliy Mykolenko as a proven Premier League option, depth is non-existent. Reinforcements here must be a top priority this window to protect against injuries and keep the defence stable.
Midfield is a major concern for Everton. Idrissa Gana Gueye’s contract remains unresolved, and his possible departure would leave a big gap. Right now, only James Garner, Tim Iroegbunam, and Carlos Alcaraz look ready to hold down spots in a midfield three, while Harrison Armstrong is more of a backup option at this stage.
Plenty of targets have been linked, but the club urgently needs to lock down a new defensive midfielder and add at least two quality number eights.
Out wide, quality has been lacking for too long, though much of that comes down to Sean Dyche’s pragmatic style. Dwight McNeil and Iliman Ndiaye are nailed-on starters for next season, but another reliable wide player is needed to compete with them and provide depth alongside the young Barry.
Beto, Chermiti, and Barry should provide enough cover to lead the line in a lone striker system, with Ndiaye also capable of stepping in as a number nine if needed. Losing Dominic Calvert-Lewin is a blow, but bringing in a fitter, more reliable replacement at a sensible price could prove smart business.
Plenty of names are doing the rounds around L4, but whoever Everton bring through the doors at Finch Farm must add real value, not just to make up the numbers, but to play meaningful minutes and help drive the club’s ambitions forward