Everton could make two significant signings before Premier League season begins
Everton has completed three permanent signings during the summer transfer window, but additional acquisitions could significantly enhance team morale. The club’s recent transfer activity has somewhat improved the mood among supporters, following disappointing results at the end of the previous season, including losses to Sunderland and Tottenham Hotspur.
The permanent return of versatile midfielder Merlin Rohl was expected after Everton secured Premier League safety. Additionally, winger Tyrique George has rejoined the club on Merseyside after a renegotiated deal with Chelsea. The club also secured the signing of midfielder Hayden Hackney, who was named Championship Player of the Season, amidst competition from other clubs.
Right-back remains a priority
Despite these signings, the club aims to complete two more deals before their match against Crystal Palace on August 22. A new right-back is considered a transfer priority, with names such as Raoul Bellanova, Guela Doue, Djed Spence, Ben White, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka reportedly being considered. The acquisition of an attacking right-back is seen as crucial for improving the team’s capabilities and addressing a long-standing issue within the squad.
The World Cup has contributed to a slowdown in transfer activity across the Premier League, alongside other factors like numerous managerial changes and an increasingly inflated domestic market. Manager David Moyes recently started Merlin Rohl at right-back during a 4-0 pre-season victory against Dundee, with Jake O’Brien moving to centre-back. This decision, along with deploying Tyrique George as a centre-forward, has led to speculation about Moyes’ intentions regarding the need for new signings in these positions.
Potential return for Jack Grealish
Another significant target for Everton is the potential return of Jack Grealish. Discussions regarding bringing the England international back to the club are reportedly complex, partly due to his recovery from a serious injury that ended his previous loan spell with the Blues. Grealish is nearing a return to training at Manchester City, which will address one of the main questions surrounding his potential return.
The financial aspects of a deal for Grealish present another challenge. The 30-year-old is in the final year of his contract at Manchester City, who reportedly prefer a permanent sale rather than another loan, which is understood to be Everton‘s preferred option. Grealish’s reported weekly earnings of £300,000 further complicate any potential transfer. His return, however, would likely be popular among both his teammates and the fanbase, given his contribution of two match-winning goals and six assists in the first half of last season.
Meanwhile, there is speculation surrounding the future of Iliman Ndiaye. He has reportedly rejected multiple contract offers from Everton and is believed to be seeking Champions League football. Several top clubs, including Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Manchester United, are reportedly in the market for a winger. Everton paid approximately £15 million for the Senegalese international, and while the club might demand over £60 million for him, this figure is considerably less than what Aston Villa received for Morgan Rogers. Ndiaye’s work rate and versatility could make him an attractive option for clubs like Aston Villa. The Premier League season is set to begin in one month, with Everton facing Crystal Palace.
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Source: liverpoolecho.co.uk