David Moyes guided Everton to Premier League safety with ease, and he is keen to build upon that next season.
With the Friedkin Group overseeing their first proper transfer window on Meresyside, there is expected to be increased investment in the squad. The Toffees have already announced the departure of four players this summer, with Ashley Young, Asmir Begovic, Joao Virginia and Abdoulaye Doucoure leaving upon the expiry of their contracts.Jordan Pickford may be 31-years-old, but he is continuing to perform to a high level for Everton, so the England number one is expected to retain his position in the side next term.
Defensively, the Toffees could see several changes. Jarrad Branthwaite is being linked with a move away once more, with Chelsea said to be keen.
Although Vitaliy Mykolenko could retain his position in the side, Nathan Patterson and Jake O’Brien may not have done enough to convince Moyes of their spot. Everton are also reported to have already made a bid for Jerome Opoku this summer, with a move to Merseyside just a matter of time, as James Tarkowski recovers from serious injury.
Moyes is personally a fan of Burnley defender Maxime Esteve, and while Scott Parker’s side may be reluctant to part ways, the Blues have been backed to secure the signing for the correct fee.
Everton turn to Nick Woltemade after Liam Delap disappointment
James Garner could be joined by Dan Neil in midfield.
The Blues are said to be admirers of the Sunderland captain and, despite his side’s promotion to the Premier League, will be looking to convince the 23-year-old to change his colours.
Dwight McNeil could line up alongside Carlos Alcaraz and Iliman Ndiaye, who has been the standout man for the Toffees this term.
Although Alcaraz’s future was uncertain, the Toffees have agreed on personal terms to make the loanee’s move permanent. Liam Delap had previously been on Everton’s radar ahead of the summer, but despite the guarantee of regular minutes, the striker has identified Chelsea as his chosen destination.
Moyes certainly needs attacking reinforcements, though, and therefore Nick Woltemade could be the solution.
The forward has scored 17 goals for VFB Stuttgart this term, and the Toffees could be prepared to make a bid after it was revealed he would be a low earner.
Jarell Quansah could be set to make the move across Merseyside from Liverpool to Everton this summer.
The Toffees ended their Premier League campaign in 13th place after an unexpected 1-0 victory against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park on the final day of the season (25 May).
Now, David Moyes’ side will be keen to strengthen their squad in the hope of climbing up the Premier League table next year.
Ahead of their move from Goodison Park to the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the Merseyside club could look to make a statement with the signing of Quansah from Liverpool.
While Liverpool’s asking price may seem a little steep for Everton, Quansah could end up justifying the means. The centre-back has showcased his ability during several cameos for Liverpool despite making just 25 appearances in a busy season.
With regular gametime, the Englishman could work his way up to being a regular starter for Moyes in no time. Thus, the price seems reasonable for a player with such promise for the future, and Everton would be unwise to pass up on the opportunity to sign Quansah.
Now that the campaign has concluded, clubs can reflect on their successes as well as their failings.
With that in mind, Everton have made an announcement about their central midfielder, Idrissa Gueye.
According to Brazilian news outlet Globo (29 May), Everton have activated the option to keep Alcaraz, who agreed on personal terms on Wednesday.
Flamengo are set to receive £12.6million, with the possibility of another £2.5million in bonuses.
Moyes is eager to reduce the average age of his side to create a slicker team, and the midfielder is surely someone who fits into that plan with some ease.
The deal to sign Alcaraz is one that makes financial sense for the Toffees, who will want to be mindful when it comes to their business, despite having more resources available to use.
Moyes will continue working with Alcaraz to develop his abilities, hoping that he can become a core part of the side for many years to come.
