Everton's summer transfer business is taking shape with a confirmed list of ins and outs as the window enters its final days. Manager David Moyes is still hoping to add a right-back to his squad, according to a report from the Liverpool Echo.
This week, the club confirmed the permanent signing of Brennan Johnson from Crystal Palace, which was effectively a swap deal involving Dwight McNeil moving the opposite way. Johnson became the fifth senior arrival of the window, following Christian Norgaard from Arsenal, Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough, and the permanent captures of Merlin Rohl and Tyrique George after their successful loan spells last season. The academy also added young forward Kai Hutchison from Dundee and two Chelsea prospects, Tom McDermott and Arthur Barratt.
Who has left Everton this summer?
The list of departures is longer, headlined by Dwight McNeil's move to Crystal Palace. Experienced campaigners Seamus Coleman and Idrissa Gueye have also left the club, with Gueye joining Diriyah. A host of younger players have moved on, including Reece Welch to Bradford City, Tyler Onyango to Sheffield Wednesday, and Frankie Okoronkwo to Doncaster Rovers. The exits of players like Jacob Beaumont-Clark and Kingsford Boakye were also confirmed.
Which players face uncertain futures?
The Liverpool Echo notes that the futures of four more senior players remain under question as they enter the final year of their contracts. Carlos Alcaraz, Tim Iroegbunam, Nathan Patterson, and striker Beto are in this category, and decisions on their situations could influence any further incoming business. Moyes may also look to the loan market, with young defender Adam Aznou a potential candidate for a temporary move after not featuring in the squad last weekend despite a positive pre-season.
How does the squad look now?
With the new additions, Everton's squad depth has been bolstered in key areas. The midfield has been significantly reinforced with the arrivals of Norgaard, Hackney, and Rohl. Johnson adds another option in attack. However, the pursuit of a right-back indicates Moyes sees a gap that still needs filling. Fans can track the evolving team composition on our squad page.
What happens next before the deadline?
The final week of the window is set to be busy. Everton's activity may depend on generating funds through sales, with the situations of Alcaraz, Iroegbunam, Patterson, and Beto being key. The club's ambition under the Friedkin Group ownership could see further investment if the right opportunities arise, particularly if the aim is to challenge for European qualification. Supporters can follow the team's progress in the league on our standings page. The focus now shifts to integrating the new signings and finalising the squad for the challenges ahead, with the next run of matches detailed on our fixtures page.
