It’s been a solid start to the season for David Moyes’s men, who, after an initial sluggish start to the summer window, brought in enough talent before the deadline to suggest this is a squad w...
It’s been a solid start to the season for David Moyes’s men, who, after an initial sluggish start to the summer window, brought in enough talent before the deadline to suggest this is a squad well placed to avoid the struggles of recent seasons.
Though the majority were pleased with the summer’s recruitment, most prominently that of Jack Grealish, an entire overhaul was unrealistic in one transfer window. January is already looming, and the chance to address issues in the squad that remain.
Perhaps the biggest grumble in the season’s opening weeks has been at centre-forward. Signed in the summer for £27m, Thierno Barry has looked rawer than expected for a player who scored 11 La Liga goals last season. The 22-year-old will be given time, but at present does not look ready to handle the demands of leading the Everton line.
Beto has been preferred for much of the season so far, but remains erratic. Last season’s purple patch has not been replicated, with one goal in seven Premier League appearances. His xG underperformance (-1.54) also makes him the fourth-most wasteful player in the division to date. Both of Everton’s number nines have looked better as impact players than from the start.
Given the significant investment of the summer - and the difficulty of finding value in January - an expensive attacking recruit looks unlikely. However, in a World Cup year where players are desperate for minutes, there could be some short-term market opportunities. Here are five players Everton could consider to sharpen up their frontline.
Ivan Toney - Al-Ahli
Rumours are circulating that Ivan Toney could pursue a Premier League return in January, as he looks to increase his chances of World Cup involvement with England next summer. The 29-year-old has scored 38 goals in 54 games since his move from Brentford to Saudi Arabia, where he helped Al-Ahli to the 2024/25 AFC Champions League.
An excellent focal point, Toney scored 36 goals in 85 top-flight games for Brentford and would represent a significant upgrade in the Everton attack.
The Saudi Pro League has two breaks scheduled, in the festive period and a Ramadan break from February to mid-March. Toney could request a short-term return to England to retain his sharpness. A move back to England would put him back in Thomas Tuchel’s thoughts.
Chris Wood - Nottingham Forest
Just a matter of months ago, the prospect of prising Chris Wood from Nottingham Forest would have been far-fetched. Wood scored 20 league goals to fire Forest into Europe, but a change of head coach could open up an opportunity.
The New Zealander looks an odd fit for Ange Postecoglou, provided the Australian can weather the early pressure from a torrid start. With summer signing Igor Jesus impressing in cup competition, the option of Wood leaving the City Ground for more minutes could materialise by January. It would represent a short-term solution for the Blues, but add much-needed presence. Wood, who is closing in on 100 Premier League goals, could also benefit the development of Barry.
Endrick - Real Madrid
When Endrick moved to Real Madrid in 2024, he was touted as arguably the most exciting talent in the game. A Brazil debutant at 17, he became the fourth-youngest player to represent the five-time world champions.
The teenager has since struggled for football in Spain, where he started just three La Liga games last season. An overall record of seven goals in all competitions highlighted his talent, but he’s yet to play a league minute this season. Having won 14 caps for Brazil, Endrick is highly rated by the Selecao. However, he needs minutes to have any chance of a World Cup place.
Richarlison - Tottenham Hotspur
The prospect of Richarlison’s return has almost continually circled ever since his exit for Tottenham in 2022. His time in North London has been plagued by injuries and spells out of favour, though the 28-year-old has started the 2025/26 campaign impressively.
Three goals in five Premier League starts have earned Thomas Frank’s trust, but with Dominic Solanke to return and Randal Kolo Muani signed in the summer, his place is far from guaranteed. A player who has rarely hidden his affection for the Blues should be one to watch if his minutes dwindle.
Joshua Zirkzee - Manchester United
Joshua Zirkzee’s name continues to crop up in the Everton rumour mill. The Dutchman has been ousted at Manchester United after a heavy summer spend, following an underwhelming first season at Old Trafford. Zirkzee scored seven times in his debut year, but question marks remain over his best role.
There’s clearly a player there, with Zirkzee named Serie A’s Best Young Player in 2023/24, and his technical talent is clear. Though there is also an argument that he lacks the athleticism to truly thrive in the Premier League. A low-risk loan could work for Everton, though there are few guarantees that he improves the Toffees’ goal threat.
Category: General Sports
