Everton's summer transfer window ended in chaos and a significantly weaker squad, despite CEO Angus Kinnear's recent declaration of financial stability. According to a report from Yahoo Sports, the club finished the period with a £25.35m profit but failed to secure several key targets on deadline day, leaving manager David Moyes with a thin squad as they sit 7th in the Premier League with 4 points from two games.
Kinnear had stated on 18 August that "the club were in a stable financial position heading towards the end of the transfer window." This statement preceded a frantic final day on 31 August that saw a £40m deal for striker Folarin Balogun collapse even after a deal sheet was submitted. The club also registered last-minute interest in forwards Joshua Zirkzee and Tammy Abraham, but no agreements were reached.
What players left Everton this summer?
The exodus of talent was a defining feature of the window. Defender Nathan Patterson, midfielder Tim Iroegbunam, striker Beto, and forward Iliman Ndiaye all departed Goodison Park. Their replacements, Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Jack Grealish, represent a significant shift in the squad's profile. Another potential major sale also fell through, as a £40m bid from Nottingham Forest for Harrison Armstrong collapsed following fan backlash against the move.
How does the squad look for the next game?
The failed business leaves David Moyes with a threadbare group for the immediate challenges. As the team prepares for its next fixture, a home match against Manchester United on 6 September, the squad contains just one recognised striker, one right-back, and one left-back. This lack of depth is a major concern for a side that has started the season solidly, conceding only one goal while scoring three for a +2 goal difference. Fans can assess the full roster on our squad page.
What is the club's long-term recruitment plan?
Angus Kinnear has spoken of a two-year recruitment strategy following the Friedkin Group's takeover in December 2024. The aim is to build a sustainable and competitive team over a longer horizon. However, the immediate outcome of this summer's window is a net spend profit of over £25m and a playing group that is objectively weaker than the one that started the summer nine weeks ago. The club's current league standing, just 2 points behind leaders Manchester City, shows potential that now risks being undermined by a lack of reinforcements.
Where does Everton go from here?
The focus now shifts entirely to the pitch. The team must rely on its current personnel to maintain its early-season form, which reads DW from the opening two matches. All available resources will be needed for the upcoming clash with 10th-placed Manchester United. The full schedule for this busy period is available on our fixtures page. Everton's next match is at home against Manchester United on Sunday, 6 September 2026.
