Everton FC’s upcoming season is shrouded in uncertainty due to financial struggles, but transfer rumors offer a glimmer of hope. Despite the departure of Andre Gomes, Andy Lonergan, and Dele Alli, the squad requires strengthening to build on their 15th-place finish. The Toffees’ financial issues may hinder their ability to make significant signings, but several players have been linked with a move to Goodison Park. Here’s a potential starting lineup based on transfer rumors:
- GK – Jordan Pickford: Coming off his best season, Pickford seems to be improving with age and experience. His consistency and shot-stopping ability make him a vital asset for Everton.
- RB – Yukinari Sugawara: This young Japanese right-back has impressed in Holland and is attracting Premier League attention. He would bring quality, experience, and attacking prowess to Everton’s defense, an area they lacked last season.
- CB – James Tarkowski: A rock at the back for two seasons, Tarkowski was crucial in Everton conceding the fourth-least goals. His consistency, leadership, and defensive skills make him a vital asset.
- CB – Jarrad Branthwaite: Despite being a target for multiple clubs, Everton is holding firm on his high price tag, hoping to raise funds from other areas. Branthwaite’s potential and performances last season make him a valuable asset for the future.
- LB – Sergio Reguilón: A reported target for Everton, Reguilón would bring experience, quality, and attacking flair to the left-back position. His ability to support attacks and track back would be a significant upgrade for the Toffees.
- DM – Cheick Doucouré: Linked with a move to Everton, Doucouré would provide defensive solidity, athleticism, and physical presence in midfield. His ability to break up opposition attacks and distribute the ball effectively would be a welcome addition.
- CM – Moisés Caicedo: A talented young midfielder, Caicedo has been impressive for Leeds United and would bring creativity, energy, and box-to-box ability to Everton’s midfield. His vision and passing range would unlock opposition defenses.
- CM – Tyler Adams: Another reported target, Adams would offer experience, tenacity, and defensive skills in midfield. His ability to support attacks and provide cover for the defense would be invaluable.
- RW – Raphinha: A skilled winger, Raphinha has been linked with a move to Everton and would bring pace, creativity, and goal-scoring ability to the attack. His ability to beat defenders and deliver crosses would be a significant upgrade.
- ST – Armando Broja: A Chelsea forward rumored to be joining Everton, Broja would offer a physical presence, goal-scoring ability, and hold-up play up front. His pace and movement would cause problems for opposition defenses.
- LW – Crysencio Summerville: A talented young winger, Summerville has impressed for Leeds United and would bring pace, skill, and creativity to Everton’s attack. His ability to beat defenders and deliver crosses would be a welcome addition.
This potential lineup offers a mix of experience, youth, and quality, addressing areas where Everton struggled last season. The addition of Sugawara, Reguilón, Doucouré, Caicedo, Adams, Raphinha, Broja, and Summerville would provide a significant upgrade in defense, midfield, and attack. However, financial constraints and competition from other clubs may complicate these transfer plans. Everton fans can only hope that some of these rumors come to fruition, strengthening the squad for the upcoming season.