With the transfer deadline looming, Everton face a potentially hectic final week as they look to wrap up their business.
The club still has significant tasks to complete before the window shuts, particularly in the right-back position.
Additionally, they are receptive to moving on from certain squad members, given that player sales are now integral to contemporary football economics. One key question for the coming days remains whether they can repel any last-minute approaches for players they are keen to retain.
Addressing the long-standing right-back issue was among Everton’s primary objectives at the beginning of the summer. The problem existed before the Friedkin Group’s arrival and David Moyes’ comeback, and its persistence threatens to jeopardise another season.
Both parties had anticipated resolving this matter last summer, but Kenny Tete opted to sign a new contract with Fulham. Although Jake O’Brien applied himself admirably in that role for a second successive year, Moyes’ limited confidence in alternative choices—including Nathan Patterson, who became the sole dedicated right-back following Seamus Coleman’s departure this summer—meant he could not shift his centre-back to his preferred position. Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury ultimately sparked a disappointing conclusion to the previous campaign.
Throughout the second half of last term, Moyes repeatedly highlighted the necessity for a solution, making the absence of one particularly puzzling. Chief executive Angus Kinnear exuded confidence just last week that a signing would materialise, stating the targets identified earlier in the summer remained viable options.
Nevertheless, Moyes being compelled to begin the campaign with another misfit in that position—selecting midfielder Merlin Rohl at right-back against Crystal Palace—fell short of ideal. While Moyes and Kinnear appeared to hold differing perspectives on certain matters in their respective interviews last week, by the time Moyes spoke following the opening-day victory, it was evident both acknowledged the club needed to recruit a right-back before next Tuesday concludes.
The club have already pursued numerous candidates this summer, with Moyes understood to admire Strasbourg’s Guela Doue, although his price tag presents difficulties. A potential move for Celtic’s Alistair Johnston had been investigated prior to his injury, while they have also assessed Fulham’s Timothy Castagne and Palace’s Daniel Munoz, who shared a moment with Moyes at full-time at the weekend.
Where Moyes and Kinnear may diverge is on additional requirements to strengthen the squad. Moyes indicated substantial work remained before the season kicked off, whereas Kinnear expressed satisfaction with current dealings and publicly outlined ambitions of challenging for European qualification and cup honours.
Thierno Barry’s scoring start has been welcomed, with optimism he could develop into a more reliable finisher this term, though the forward line represents an area the club would consider upgrading should circumstances align. Moyes retains affection for Liam Delap after competing with Chelsea for his signature last summer, though interest from Nottingham Forest could jeopardise any future move for the striker.
A decision is also required at left-back after Adam Aznou, yet to feature in the Premier League since his arrival twelve months ago, was omitted from the Palace matchday squad. Should Moyes doubt his ability to challenge Vitalii Mykolenko, sanctioning a loan departure and sourcing alternative cover would appear sensible, at least temporarily.
Jack Grealish also presents an intriguing scenario. The club has maintained communication with the creative midfielder throughout the summer, and while the Blues have made clear their desire to bring him back and the player has indicated openness to a return following an injury-curtailed loan, a move remains uncertain. New Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca selected Grealish for the Community Shield and their Premier League opener against Bournemouth, while sanctioning Savinho’s switch to Tottenham. Everton would need to weigh up whether risking the progression of young wide players Tyler Dibling and Tyrique George—who both impressed during pre-season—would be worthwhile.
The club’s intentions will partly depend on departures. Nathan Patterson, Tim Iroegbunam, Carlos Alcaraz and Beto—all in the final year of their contracts—could attract interest, though the club retains options to extend some of these agreements.
Of those, Iroeghunam has generated the most attention, though talks with Hull City collapsed after he sustained an injury during a friendly with Stuttgart. Those close to the player and the club do not view the setback as a major obstacle to a deal, with some optimism he could resume training before the deadline.
Should a more prominent first-team player attract attention in the coming week, Everton might find themselves conducting urgent business. Reports emerged this week that approaches for Jake O’Brien could be entertained—a revelation that surprised supporters who believe he should be being prepared to partner Jarrad Branthwaite. His departure would necessitate a replacement.
Iliman Ndiaye will also warrant attention. Although Al-Hilal expressed interest, the Senegal international’s aspirations remain centred on European football. A strong beginning to the campaign can only have enhanced his standing, with several elite clubs seeking to bolster their left-sided midfield positions. With three years remaining on his contract, Everton would hold a strong negotiating position should a late offer arrive.