Pre-season progress and transfer window activity
Everton has begun its pre-season schedule, securing a 4-0 victory against Dundee. Despite this positive start, the club’s transfer window activity has been described as stagnant, raising concerns as the Premier League season approaches. The team’s current state has been noted, with a need for further squad strengthening.
The club had previously made early signings, bringing in Hayden Hackney and Tyrique George, which initially suggested a proactive approach to the transfer window. However, the pace of transfers appears to have slowed. There is a belief that Everton needs to accelerate its transfer business, ideally securing new players before the end of the month to allow them to participate in pre-season preparations.
Addressing the right-back situation
A key area identified for reinforcement is the right-back position. The departure of Seamus Coleman has highlighted this need. If Nathan Patterson also leaves, the club would be left with Jake O’Brien, who is not a natural right-back. This situation underscores the urgency for Everton to acquire at least one new right-back, with some suggestions indicating a need for more than one.
Manager David Moyes‘ decisions during the friendly against Dundee have been interpreted by some as a potential message to the board regarding the need for new signings. Moyes started Merlin Rohl at right-back, moving O’Brien to centre-back, despite other options being available on the bench. Later in the match, George was deployed as a centre-forward, with Thierno Barry remaining on the bench, further fuelling speculation about the manager’s desire for new players in key positions.
Iliman Ndiaye’s future at Everton
The future of Iliman Ndiaye at Everton is also a significant topic. Ndiaye has reportedly declined multiple contract offers from the club, indicating a desire to play Champions League football. Several top clubs, including Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Manchester United, are reportedly in the market for a winger, and Ndiaye could attract their interest.
Aston Villa, in particular, is seeking a replacement for Morgan Rogers and has substantial funds available. Given that Everton acquired Ndiaye for approximately £15 million, it is suggested that the club might demand a fee exceeding £60 million for the Senegalese international, though this would be considerably less than what Villa received for Rogers. Ndiaye’s versatility and work rate are seen as qualities that would suit Villa’s playing style under Unai Emery.
While there is a hope that Ndiaye could be convinced to stay and become a central figure in a more progressive Everton side, the current circumstances suggest that the club might consider an offer above £60 million. The club’s transfer plans also involve assessing interest in players like Mandela Keita and Jack Grealish, alongside potential player sales, as Moyes shapes the squad for the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, former Everton coach Keith Southern has rejoined Fleetwood Town after nearly a decade at Goodison Park, following a club restructure.
Young players Adam Aznou and George Finney impressed during a friendly, demonstrating energy and balance to David Moyes.
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Source: roundtable.io
Leo Ashworth is a Sports News Writer at Latest News UK. He cut his teeth on regional sport before specialising in fast breaking-news writing. He focuses on rugby union, golf and boxing and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Central Lancashire and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Newcastle, he follows the European Tour and boxes at an amateur gym. “Get it right first, then tell readers why it matters.”