Everton's striking woes continue as a £20m target is rejected, but a familiar face might be staying put. Will these transfer decisions make or break their season?
David Moyes is navigating a crucial period at Everton, and the January transfer window is his chance to fine-tune the squad. While the purse strings haven't exactly been loosened yet, there's still time for some strategic additions before the window slams shut.
The Toffees are settling into their new home at Hill Dickinson Stadium, and the Friedkin Group is experiencing their first full season as owners. So far, it's been a relatively stable start. Sitting comfortably in 12th place after 21 games, they're only six points shy of a coveted Champions League spot currently held by Liverpool. That's a tantalizingly close margin!
The summer signings brought some much-needed talent. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, acquired from Chelsea for £25 million, has been a creative spark in midfield, even though he's currently sidelined. His left-footed deliveries and playmaking ability have been vital. Jack Grealish seems to have found a new lease on life at Everton, and the potential of £40 million signing Tyler Dibling is still waiting to be fully unlocked. But here's the rub: certain areas of the squad desperately need strengthening, particularly upfront.
Striker Search Stalls: En-Nesyri Snub
Thierno Barry, a £27.5 million acquisition from Villarreal last summer after scoring 11 goals the previous season, hasn't lived up to expectations. At 23, it might be premature to write him off entirely, but he hasn't convinced as a reliable No. 9. Beto, another expensive signing from the Moshiri era, also hasn't provided the consistent goalscoring threat Everton needs.
Rumors swirled about a potential £20 million move for Fenerbahce's Youssef En-Nesyri, who has a decent goalscoring record this season. But here's where it gets controversial... Is En-Nesyri, at 28, the right investment? Some argue that spending such a sum on an older player isn't fiscally sound. A more prudent approach might be to pursue a cheaper, short-term solution, giving Barry time to develop or paving the way for a younger, high-potential striker in the summer.
A name that has been suggested is West Ham's Callum Wilson. Despite West Ham's struggles, Wilson has managed four league goals and has been pushed down the pecking order. He's familiar with Moyes, knows where the net is, and wouldn't disrupt the squad dynamics. A short-term loan deal could be a cost-effective solution. What do you think? Is experience the answer, or should Everton focus on developing younger talent?
Garner's Future Secured
Since arriving from Manchester United in 2022, James Garner has become an integral part of the Everton squad. His creativity and versatility have been crucial to Moyes' tactical flexibility, excelling in midfield and even filling in at right-back.
At 24, Garner's best years are ahead of him. However, his current contract expires in June 2026, although Everton has an option to extend it by another year. And this is the part most people miss... Reports suggest that negotiations for a new long-term deal are underway, and they need to be concluded swiftly. Why? Because Manchester United might be tempted to re-sign Garner at a reduced price, given his contract situation. Securing Garner's future is a top priority for Everton.
Right-Back Reinforcements on the Horizon?
While Garner and Jake O'Brien have performed admirably at right-back, there's still a feeling that neither is a natural fit for the position. With Seamus Coleman's long-term replacement needed, Everton are reportedly eyeing reinforcements.
One name linked with the club is Brooke Norton-Cuffy, a former Chelsea and Arsenal academy player who now plays for Genoa in Serie A. The England Under-21 international has impressed in Italy, developing into a powerful wing-back known for his pace, physicality, and strength.
Everton are reportedly monitoring Norton-Cuffy, who is valued at around £17.5 million and would qualify as a homegrown player. However, they face competition from clubs like Juventus.
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So, what do you make of Everton's transfer strategy? Are they right to be cautious with their spending, or should they be taking more risks to address their goalscoring problems? And is Norton-Cuffy the answer at right-back, or should they be looking at other options? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
