Everton head into the January transfer window with a brand new owner. The club was bought by the American-based Friedkin Group in mid-December. Not enough time for the new owners to implement their vision both on and off the field before the winter transfer window. However, strengthening the squad is needed as the club sits just three points clear of the relegation zone heading into the new year.
What Is Needed For Improvement at Everton In The Transfer Window
Current Financial Situation At Everton
Everton’s previous owner, Farhad Moshiri, left the club in financial woes. Large loans were taken out by the club to keep operations running towards the end of his tenure. Additionally, the Premier League profit and sustainability rules (PSR) have hampered the Toffees spending ability as of late.
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Friedkin Group immediately alleviated the financial stress placed upon the team by restructuring the loans so that they were no longer against the club and its assets but the group as a whole. While this does not clear them of any PSR pressure, it will allow for more flexibility going forward.
The upcoming transfer window will likely be a month of minimal spending unless they brings in funds through player sales. But with an already thin squad, this will be unlikely.
Positions of Need at Everton
The early season injury crisis showed just how thin the squad can be. Players were moved around the lineup to fill holes left by injuries. In that time six different players played across the two wingback positions. Vitaliy Mykolenko is the squad’s only natural left back as it stands, a potential replacement or further cover is needed.
The other side of defence also needs improvement, although less urgent. Veterans Ashley Young and Seamus Coleman are currently the main choices. But at 39 and 36 years old, both are on the way out from professional football. Nathan Patterson is seemingly out of favour and could be sold to help fund any incoming transfers.
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Further up the pitch, there are no right-wing options on permanent deals. It has become the team’s highest position of need. Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom are both currently on loan, with the latter having an option to buy. But neither has particularly shown that they will be viable options going forward. A long-term solution is needed and securing one sooner rather than later would do wonders for the side.
While they are unlikely to sign any strikers this window, as they have four in the current first-team squad. It is an ongoing need for the club to find a consistent goal scorer to lead the club forward.
Likely Outcome of Everton January Transfers
If any players are to be signed in January it won’t be for big money. Manager Sean Dyche’s future is still up in the air, as his contract runs out at the end of the season. Friedkin Group won’t want to make a splash and commit big sums to a manager who may not be on the sideline at the new stadium. But a right-wing signing will be the first priority.
