Rumour Mill — Week of 18 May 2025

I fancy Moyes will want to keep Calvert-Lewin- its a 50/50 decision for me.
Gana Gueye has earned a year or two.
Tarkowski likewise.
Pickford obviously.
Doucoure I will be sorry to see him go - I would give him 1 or 2 years if money could be agreed, but when he came off it did seem like he's not been given a contract.
Longstaff - is a no.
Richarlison - he's another 50/50 decision.
I don't know the other 2 that Michael has mentioned.

Do we take it that all those mentioned in the last two weeks but not this have now been discarded by the hacks paid to make this up?

Good question, Phil.

I have been adding them back in when I see them mentioned again, but this can be just a cross reference by said creative journo, referencing his own earlier creative work.

I like the thought that some sources are more reliable than others. The fact is that these are all (I think it's safe to say) from click-bait sites and few if any from what might pass in previous times as the highly respected and mainstream media (stop laughing at the back!) who once had sufficient integrity to avoid publishing such rubbish.

I know it's (almost all) rubbish because, as in previous seasons, many are linked, but few are chosen to actually join the club. I suspect it will be the same this year.

Clear the decks as much as we can – bring in some young hungry players from lower leagues or abroad (if they'll come), get them bedded in before the first match. We need players with resale value in the future, with no real U21s coming through.

Doucoure has stunk the place out for 90% of matches; yes, he's come up with league saving goals but we need more contributions for the money he wants over a whole season and he hasn't shown that at all. A box-to-box midfielder who's stuck in a box.

We need to keep Alcaraz; maybe him knowing he's wanted and first name on the teamsheet will spur him on.
Seamus would be a great ambassador for the club, like Tim Cahill.

Sorry but although Richarlison was a great buy and plays well and loves the club, he's far too injury-prone to sustain a decent run.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin needs to move on – he's a nice lad and has a passion but, like Richarlison, could be accompanying him in the treatment room. We've had enough of them over the years and it has held us back.

All that's happening now gives us fans hope we are moving onward and upward to a brighter future than the last 30+ years.

I think we'll see two new full-backs (left and right), a right-sided midfielder, an attacking midfielder (Alcaraz?) and probably a striker if Calvert-Lewin does move on.

2 Middlesbrough lads getting attention, both midfielders 22-24.

Hayden Hackney 9 goals in 86, central midfielder
Finn Azaz 16 goals in 65 games, attacking midfielder

Sorry about the double post. Was on the metro in Barcelona (yes, I was) and the signal was not good.

Sure the guy opposite was Messi and I showed him the videos from yesterday and he was quite interested.

Michael, I think it’s more the case of selling clubs and agents choosing to do business with Everton - rather than us choosing who we want of these targets.

Tchatchoua is of interest to lots of clubs across Europe and maybe beyond. Everton included.

So unless we’re prepared to go in big with fee and wages package Verona and the player will just wait it out. That’s why so much business is done right at the end of a window even though it doesn’t make sense from a footballling perspective

There are three thibgs I am fairly certain of:

Abdoule Doucoure is gone;
We will get a right-back;
We will get a goalscoring and creative forward or winger.

Of all the names being bandied about, I doubt if any of them have a grain of truth.

Personally, I would go all out for Walker-Peters who is versatile playing left or right, has Premier League experience, and still has a few years in his engine.

Raid Man City's academy, they snatched up a lot of promising talent a few years ago who have been coached the right way.

Oh and let Calvert-Lewin go.

His attitude is appalling in that he was treated great for the last 3 years while injured and then refuses a new contract till no-one was interested in him.

As far as Calvert-Lewin is concerned, he couldn't give a shit when he came on; he should do the right thing by Everton.

By agreeing to extend his contract with a buy-out clause of £2M, someone will pay that for him. At least we would get some return for the patience and respect we have shown him.

He will be another Barkley and walk for nothing; I'm sure we would have some promising youngsters to bolster the squad.

I live in Australia so don't get a lot of news about Everton, but we have a real chance here to buy young and not what previous managers have done and bought aged so-called established players.

Surely there has to be equal or better players around… what about some of the teams who constantly play in the European cups from the weaker leagues?

Like most, I'd like us to refresh the squad with younger, hungry, fearless players.

I like the Ipswich left-back, Gray. He's quick and has a sweet left peg.

Walker-Peters (Southampton) is another good, cheap option at right -back.

Down the right, I wonder if we could get Jack Grealish on loan with an option to buy? Like so many others, eg, Foden, Pep has ruined him with his now old, boring, tedious, robotic style of football. Give Grealish the freedom to roam, like in his Villa days, and we could be onto a winner.

We need a midfield general who can dictate play. No idea who but I wouldn't mind Modric if we could convince him. He'd be an iconic, short-term, game changer for us.

Up front, I wanted Delap but he seems out of our reach now. Richarlison, if fit, would be a good option, as would Ferguson. I'd also give Jamie Vardy a shot. He's still got another season, or two, left in him. And, like Modric, he's a leader on the pitch.

These players wouldn't cost a fortune.

Always difficult to comment on the links. The Longstaff one seems to have been doing the rounds since Benitez was here, so I'm not sure if it's lazy journalism. He might be a good option and I would imagine, fits Moyes's style. I believe he can play box-to-box, but another player I've not taken too much notice of. I'm just going off conversations with a Newcastle-supporting mate.

As most have us said, and I'm sure it will be a priority, repair the right side.

I still think a more creative midfielder is needed. There must be one out there somewhere.

On the contracts:

Calvert-Lewin: Keep, avoiding speculation (there hasn't been much), he may make that less of a priority to allow us to fix other areas. We also have Chermiti, who, injury free, could come good.

Gana: Keep, no questions about it from me.

Tarkowski: Give him a new deal. He's one, if not the only leader we have and still a very good defender, who can mentor Branthwaite and O'Brien. Although it won't take long for the apprentices to overtake the master.

Pickford: Just give him what he wants. Now he's calmed down a bit from his younger days, he has turned into a fine keeper. Still rushes of blood, but some of his saves are outstanding. And why waste a good song?!!

Coleman: He deserves a role at the club. I don't know his credentials as a coach and haven't heard much talk of it, but I don't know what goes on at Finch Farm. Those who have played to a standard will understand that coaching is a totally different ball game. Some are better coaching the youth teams. If coaching is the route where Seamus wants to go, maybe start him off with the U18s rather than lump him in with his former team mates in the first team squad straight away? I can use a non-football example of that.

No mention of Michael Keane? Has that been decided and I missed it? If not, it wouldn't surprise me if Moyes keeps him.

Ian @6, I like Hayden Hackney a lot. Very busy midfielder who gets in a lot of tackles but crucially is very good at getting the ball forwards and is very press resistant.

He looks the closest thing in the Championship to the next Adam Wharton, I'd say, though unlikely to be quite as good (plus he's already 22 and will be 23 next month).

Azaz is very decent too though a little bit older and maybe quite similar to Alcaraz in profile?

Keep Gana and Keane on reduced wages (due to age and lack of impact over the last years respectively). Let Doucoure go.

I would personally keep Calvert-Lewin even if it'ss to protect the asset and let go cheaply next year. I think him and Beto between them can do better next season. Though Delap is my dream signing.

Angel Gomes (free) is a no-brainer to bolster midfield. Tom Fellows and Wesley for the right side. A back up left-back and some squad fillers, mix of young and experienced professionals.

I think we will see some announcements this week on Gana and others out of contract to give them a chance to say goodbye next week.

I hear what you're saying, Colin, with the oft thrown around phrase "young, hungry and fearless". I get that the aim should be to bring down the average age of the squad, but there is a place for experience and experienced players don't lack hunger. Tarkowski and Gana lacking hunger? Ashley Young (not relevant now)? I don't think so. It's a balance.

We're not doing too bad already:

O'Brien: Just turned 24, young for a centre-back.
Branthwaite: Still 22, about to turn 23, young for a centre back.
Mykolenko: 25.
James Garner: 24.
Ndiaye: 25.
Alcaraz (if we sign him permanently): 22.
Beto (27) and Calvert-Lewin (if he stays - 28): They are hardly in the veteran category just yet.
Chermiti: 20.
Harrison Armstrong: 18.
Roman Dixon (if he comes good): 20.

Yes, we should be looking for better quality and a return of investment in terms of age. It depends on the position.

If a decent experienced centre forward or centre back came along, I wouldn't be offended. We sang Kevin Campbell's name on Sunday. He was 29 when we signed him, and he played for us for nearly 6 years.

Jack Harrison plays with a lot of hunger, is still only 28, so would have been 26 when he first came on loan. He just lacks quality.

Yes, drive the average age down, but it's not a simple equation.

Makes sense to focus on markets which have a track record of delivering excellent quality at low prices.

I expect there will be frees and loans from other British clubs but the main focus of longer-term squad building will come from France, Portugal, Belgium, South America etc.

Danny # 16, I’m not bothered about age as such - I just want players of Champions League quality at the club (otherwise it’s going to be very hard to achieve anything).

Since we can’t afford any ready made Champions League quality the only option is to go for youth / potential. You can go old / broken too I guess but the wages are high and the output can be minimal - like failed vanity signings of Rodriguez and Alli.

Not everyone we sign can be Champions league quality / potential - and that’s probably where very solid older pros come in - where the fees are free or small and the wage demands aren’t too bad either (like Gueye and Tarkowski).

Its unlikely that we generate any income from sales of note from this window, and on the other side of the equation, we really don't know how much is available. That leaves the question of what happens to the out of contract players and loans.
I agree at least one fullback, Patterson when selected has not cut it for me, Ashley Young has gone, so has Coleman. Dixon will probably go out on loan. Myko is a sure bet to stay where he is at the moment, some wanting to replace him may have to wait as other areas are more pressing. We have 4 centre backs and I can see one going, if Branthwaite is sold (hopefully not) then we will probably keep Keane (hopefully not) again it depends on what money is available to rebuild. Central midfield looks ok with Alcaraz to add to the mix. Doucoure is expensive for his place, but he has come up with some big goals in his time, his apparent refusal to shift his position for a new contract will probably mean he will go and it certainly looked that way on Sunday when he came off. Harrison is a worker but lacking in quality so I doubt he will be kept and that brings us to Beto Chermiti and DCL. One of them has to go and unless a big money offer comes in for Beto, I can see us keeping DCL as a replacement would drain the coffers. In fact a speedy winger or as Moyes likes attacking / overlapping fullbacks he may well sacrifice a winger for an attacking fullback and tucked in wingers / half backs.
It all depends on how much is in the bank but I suspect its going to be a halfway house with some kept and some not. Not the full clearout but the start of.

Totally agree Robert. We can't yet compete for those types of players, so we have to be clever and shop prudently. Youth, potential with a mix of experience if a decent one who can still add value on the pitch. It's always a blend. And when we talk youth, for the first team, unless there is a wondered out there, you are usually looking in the 22 - 24 bracket in my opinion.

Christine, I'm hoping the owners will invest without having to sell, because the only two saleable assets we have that would generate decent funds for squad investment are Pickford and Branthwaite.

That prospect is more frightening than anyone we could bring in short-term.

I don't realistically think Pickford would want to leave or be sold. Branthwaite concerns me, as the sharks are circling and think they can smell blood. Get the powerbeads ready.

Danny # 20, in his first spell with us Moyes favoured 22 to 26 year olds for longer term squad building. These are players with over 100 games experience and well placed to start first team games immediately.

We may have to do this due to lack of numbers in the squad. Players in this age group tend to be disproportionately expensive if sourced from other premier league clubs though - unless well down the pecking order / perennial loanees etc

If Moyes wants experience, with goals and assists, then Mario Pasalic, who is on a free from Atalanta should be given serious consideration. Yes he's 30 but his numbers are excellent, as his injury record. 297 games for Atalanta, 59 goals and 40 assists, from Midfield. Come on Moyesiah you know it makes sense. Rumour has it Hadjuk Split maybe his destination, surely we can blow them out of the water. As for RB, go and get Lemeda from Wolves, also on a free and he can play RB / RM. If the Moyesiah wants a LB / CD, as cover, then Ben Davies is about to be released by Spurs. He can drive up with Richy ! We can then spend bigger money on a CF, a winger and get Charly for £15m. Robin Olsen on a free to give cover for Pickford. Who needs a DofF ?

He did Robert, but also put in a bit of experience too. Martyn, bringing Stubbs back, Distin, even Carsley to agree (approaching 30). I'm sure there are more examples.

To my previous point, those examples reinforce that it depends on the position on the pitch and if it fits the system the coach wants to play.

Yes, keep the average age of the squad down to mid-20s, but it has to be blended with experience.

Most managers / DoF / Player recruitment will do both. It doesn't change your points or my view, which are broadly similar.

Colin # 12 - I have said this previously but I would try to get Kevin de Bruyne as our mid field general. He is on a free.

He has his family settled in the North West and in a recent interview he came across as this being of importance to him - and he wants to stay in the Premier League.

What a difference he would make to our squad even as it is now.

Gotta disagree on KDB Laurie.

He's been the best midfielder the premier league's had in a long time BUT!

His decline is there for all to see these last few months and that's with players of the calibre that City have around him. His body just can't do what it used to unfortunately.

It's a pleasant dream to have but the reality would be, IMHO, somewhat different.

We need to stop buying players on a downward trajectory and try to sign younger, faster, aggressive ones.

KDB, for me, would be a folly we just can't afford!

I always look with interest at who our ToffeeWebbers suggest. Always backed with good stats and solid evidence that they would be an asset.

However those in actual charge at Everton then go and purchase (this includes loans, frees etc) totally hopeless, useless players. Throughout my 50 years of watching (apart from the winning Kendall era) I can count on my fingers the great signings.

The irreverence to anyone decent is startling. Yes I will give in to the argument re recent acquisitions of Ndiaye (?) and O'Brien.

This forthcoming transfer window will be no different than others in the past, in that no one suggested on here will feature.

Moyes clearly has FDR permission to acquire his chosen men. They will not be who TW's have highlighted and like.
The fact our previous DoF has left us high and dry with valueless shite and between 12-15 out of contract. A Premier League first by a country mile and another unprecedented unwelcome record we could do without. With a shite academy despite ploughing money into signings, there is little room for manoeuvre for Moyes.

Players agents know of our desperate need and will ramp up wages and ridiculous contract conditions for their clients and clubs will add a good £5-10m+ to transfer fees when Moyes calls them.

I hope beyond hope that for the first time in half a century, something goes the fuck right.

Brian @25, I agree on De Bruyne, probably one of the best of his generation. We brought Rooney back, but he was gone. In my dreamland, the out of contract Thomas Muller is leaving Bayern this summer.

But firstly, I can't begin to imagine the wages. Secondly with those names it would be following the name.

I'm firmly in the respect for elders camp, but only if they still have something to offer and can perform.

It's always interesting to read people's view on this player and that player. I try to avoid speculating on names and just give opinion on positions, unless I watch someone who catches the eye and could be a possibility. Because, ultimately Moyes, or the recruitment team (whatever they're going to call it), will decide. We have no say.

A lot of speculation as usual and many names to be taken with a pinch of salt.

I would say that Richarlison would be a waste of time from what I have seen this season.

Some of Everton's current squad are basically average and not good enough to get this team back to where they belong and I don't mean mid-table.

Many of us seem to agree on those that need to be moved on.

I thought Mangala could help the cause but will he ever be fit and young Chermitti looks decent but Moyes doesn't seem to rate him.

Doucoure just doesn't have the pep to chase people down although we know he can score the odd goal.

Although Ashley Young is the first to go plus 2 goalkeepers, everything else is up in the air so let's see what really happens.

Disagree on Kevin de Bruyne. Quality counts.

I can't not have him, and pay more in Holgate, Keane and Doucoure than his current wages!

It is extremely unlikely that any of these fading stars like Kevin De Bruyne etc will be remotely interested in playing for Everton.

Zeze might be a very astute signing as it happens. A bit left footer like Branthwaite. He's also linked with loads of clubs around Europe.

Could be a very cheap sub £20M player.

There's one player I think we'll bring in who we were heavily linked with last summer. That would be Edouardo Bove from Roma.

He was doing great at Fiorentina until his heart attack. Apparently he's fit to play now, but isn't allowed to play in Italy again the same as Eriksen wasn't when he was passed fit to play.

I think he would be a shrewd signing on a free transfer.

He wasn't one of the 3 named Ryan. Moyes stated the others out of contract will be notified ot their situation in the coming weeks, so Doucoure will fit that category. Judging by the tears as he went off on Sunday, I think he knows.

These debates always intrigue me and I find them interesting as some do a lot more research than me. I go off what I see live, be that at the match or on the box. More of a "he doesn't look too bad" approach.

I went to the Velins Arena and few years back to watch Schalke get battered by RB Leipzig. I watched a player who instantly stood out and thought to myself, I wouldn't mind him at Everton. Then I woke myself up as the player was that good, I knew from one match he was destined for the big time. Marcel Sabitzer. Unfortunately, the on loan Jonjoe Kenny was up against him and got tore a new one.

It will be an interesting summer of discussion. I don't routinely talk about players unless I see one that sticks out. All I can comment on is what positions need filling.

Moyes, his scouts and the recruitment team will choose their targets or be offered players by agents.

Keep it going though, I learn a lot.

I'll let you know what I think of Isak on my scouting mission at Newcastle on Sunday and whether he's worth a punt!!!

Just confirmed Ryan. Doucoure leaving.

Danny, I think Isak maybe missing for the skunks on Sunday. He missed the game on Sunday due to a groin injury and is a serious doubt to face us.

I was told yesterday Rob, that he could be back. Newcastle source, who I'm meeting before for a catchup. Maybe wishful thinking with them needing a win or better than the others for Champions League.

I hope so, as otherwise we face the prospect of Keane v Isak, with Branthwaite likely to be out.

Must admit, I had a bit of a chuckle reading some of the names being bandied about on this thread — some I already know of, some I've never heard of in a million years.

But the daddy of them all was Gavin Johnson (31), when mentioning one Edouardo Bove, 'he was doing great at Fiorentina until his heart attack' — For fuck's sake!

Never change, Evertonians.

It's pretty obvious where we need strengthing.

Only 5 clubs let in less goals than us this season, but also only the bottom 3 clubs scored less goals.

You could argue that's because of the tactics of playing defensively, and I think that's the obvious reason.

It depends how Moyes wants to play but I think it's safe to say we need someone new in midfield creating chances and 1 or 2 free scorers upfront.

Steve 36, Bove plays with his heart on his sleeve - literally.

KDB would be my marquee signing. Buy the player and the rest will come, to quote the author, Terrence Mann.

Brian # 25 - I agree we need to start buying younger faster aggressive players - first one on our right flank.

However, while watching the Southampton game it was so obvious we need someone in the middle of the park with a football head on his shoulders.

In my opinion KDB’s passing ability ( or someone like him - Modric?) is what we need to get the best out of both Beto and Ndiaye and by that I mean more goals.

I always think about the effect Barry had on our football when he came to us from city as an ageing but very savvy footballer.

Sorry to say this but so many suggestions advocating elderly once-brilliant players to advance our cause is so redolent of Kenwright's hopeless (and I mean "hopeless") decades-long tenure.

I have no idea what the psychological insight extends to re Moyes and the current DoF (whatever his actual title) when it comes to signing players right now. We need Tim Cahill attitude, not a near retiree seeking (as all agents/players do whatever their age) a lengthy lucrative contract whilst they prepare for full-time retirement.

Not easy, but doable, as several upper mid table clubs have shown this, and in recent, seasons as we've become repeatedly mediocre in every way courtesy of Kenwright and his puppet boss.

Don, I understand where you are coming from but we are going to have to go through a transitional period and I just feel an old head with a football brain will help.

On the other hand, if we could find the young Kevin De Bruyne that would be preferable.

Tim Cahill - it will be hard to find someone with the qualities he brought to the team:-

Liverpool's Steven Gerrard (right) and Everton's Tim Cahill (left) in the tunnel prior to kick off

Thanks for the updated list, Michael.

Never say never in football. If, and god forbid, Branthwaite was to be sold, I don't think he would end up at Chelsea. A bit like Rooney retrospectively told us, once it was clear the club where selling him to Chelsea, he told them he would choose where he wanted to go and stayed in the north west.

Depending on how tonight goes, Man Utd may move for him if Champions League qualification eases their financial difficulties. And Newcastle Utd could be an option. Champions League and with Burn not getting any younger, Branthwaite could be attractive for them. And his native Carlisle is only a short trip across the A69 to Newcastle.

Like many, I hope he remains an Everton player.

Mason Holgate? I'd forgotten he was still an Everton player.

I was having the impression that Garner was meant to be the brain? Carrick coached? A poor man's Modric/KDB?

Laurie, yes To another Gareth Barry who confounded many and showed real quality again and again, yes to another Cahill whose hunger, effort, leaps and celebrations lifted the stadium...

Might we see mates Coufal and Soucek, DM loves players he knows. Obviously would be great to throw Bowen in with that as well.

Moses Daddy-Ajala Simon, remember that name. Plays for Nantes/Nigeria. Claims to be 30 years old, looks more like 40. A winger who’s scored 37 goals in 200+ games in France.

Probably too old for the Logan’s Run folk.

That time of year again. More names being associated with us than can be found in the telephone directory by lazy journalists.

We all know where we need to strengthen and as Robert says if we are to compete we need players with the potential to play at Champions League level. Not an easy task.

The Kevin De Bruyne suggestion is intriguing. He's quality who's done it all and seen it all on some of the biggest stages in the world. His skills may be fading a little, but I think of Gareth Barry and James Rodriguez and their contribution to the team. I don't think De Bruyne will come for 1 minute but, if he did, I'm sure he'd give a boost to the team and supporters.

I like Hackney and Knight for midfield. I wouldn't touch Richarlison, for fitness and salary reasons, and am not convinced by Delap although he looks to be bound for Man Utd. Longstaff can't even get in Newcastle's team, so hardly Champions League quality.

The unknown factor in all this is Moyes. Has he got anyone in mind? Will he get backing if he has? He knows where we need to strengthen and did bring players in to strengthen a poor West Ham side, so maybe he can do the same at Everton.

Time will tell. Onwards and upwards… or turgid and terrible again. We live in interesting times.

Mike C,

I'd be absolutely delighted if we brought Bowen in. Great player and would add to our midfield goals chances. Did you see the cracker he scored this weekend?

Likewise, Mbuemo from Brentford. Cracking player!

Colin, I've just been laughing out loud and woke the dog up.

You reminded me of one of Moyes's other famous gaffes on Yakubu after scoring a hat-trick.

"He's only 25, albeit a Nigerian 25, and so if that is his age he's still got a good few years ahead of him."

Outrage in Nigeria and a near diplomatic incident.

Our very own Prince Philip.

See Pep is saying he's got too big a squad at Man City. Might be some value in looking at options there. It also raises the question of how big a squad we should have?

The maximum allowed, excluding U21s, is 25. Given we are probably only going to play probably 42 to 44 games, I suspect Moyes will want a fairly lean senior squad.

Completely off the point but does anyone know what's happened to Tom Davies?

Tony,

He's looking to gain promotion to the Premier League with Sheffield Utd.

He came on as a sub in the Championship Playoff semi-final last week.

Tony 51 - Tom Davies was on the pitch after Sunday's game with other ex-players.

He was as resplendent as usual in his rather unique attire. The only competition he had on the sartorial front was from Big Nev.

Squad surely has to be a minimum of 23?

Two for each position except keeper, three.

Brian # 54, I suspect we might end up with a core squad of about 18 to 20 next season –- with some versatile players covering a few positions. And maybe a very old goalie like Lonergan taking us up to 21 players.

I doubt we'll have 2 players for each position.

I thought the registered squad was 25?

I don't know if injury has played a part, as I haven't followed, but Tom Davies has only played about 20 games and scored 1 goal in 2 years for the Blades.

There were high hopes for him but he never quite lived up to the expectation. Similar to Jonjoe Kenny, although Tom featured more for the first team. As with both, Jonjoe with Hertha Berlin, I wish them well.

I can only assume we are going to sign a backup keeper if we have released two. Yes bring the younger keepers into the squad, but we will need experienced cover for Pickford.

Pep has made it clear and this is based on quotes, he has threatened to quit if City don't reduce the squad size.

Thomas Muller on a free would be the signing.

Wants to play Premier League, and I'd think he would be sensational behind the striker.

2-year deal with a big bonus to get us into Europe.

I think Muller probably has in mind he could play for Man City or the RS or even Newcastle and play Champions League etc.

Sadly I can't imagine why he would be remotely interested in joining Everton.

Muller to Everton on tax-free wages?

We've been here before!

Man City aren't losing Kevin de Bruyne and bringing in Muller. That just doesn't make sense, nor do they play to his physical strengths.

Can't see Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Villa.

Spurs, Man Utd, us, Newcastle would be in the mix.

Muller is 35…

Premier League a lot tougher than German league?

Agreed, Robert. At 36, there's no way he'll want to take on a 2-year project like getting us into the Champions League. He'll want to join a club that's already there.

Annika #31, amen on Gomes. Love the way he plays (way better than that other A Gomes!). But a hard No on Lamptey -- his dazzling dribbles rarely result in any kind of end product, and he's a major liability defensively. There's a reason he's only been a part-timer for the last three seasons.

I watched some of the playoff games between Coventry and Sunderland because we'd been linked with both Chris Rigg and Dan Neil. I didn't think either of them stood out.

The Coventry right-back (Dutch lad that we've also been linked with?) looked quite good going forwards.

Christy,

The Premier League is quicker.

The Bundesliga is equally as physical but more technical.

They are different, but I'd say bar the odd game, the Bundesliga is more entertaining given what the Premier League has become.

Personally, and I don't believe it possible for one minute, but I'd take Muller tomorrow. He'll be off to Saudi or possibly Beckham's Inter Miami, unless he fancies one last swan song in Europe. I don't think he'll be short of takers.

Brian @41, it's always difficult to judge off one match. That's where the importance of scouting comes in. Go and watch them over the course of at least several matches. Technology and live TV can help, but you won't spot movement, space, ability, work rate and all of the aspects that make a footballer unless you see it from the stands in my opinion.

MG - 40

Have to agree with you on Lamptey at Brighton. Defensively extreme poor.

If we need a couple of new cover keepers next year I've just seen that Robin Olsen and John Ruddy are just about to be out of contract

John Ruddy is a good shout as back-up keeper, Andrew.

Danny, the registered squad might be 25 players but it might involve a few academy players making up the numbers even though they won't play – like Callum Bates this season.

With so many departures, it's going to be a real challenge to build the numbers of the “real” squad back up this summer.

Especially if as seems likely / sensible - Armstrong, Dixon and Chermiti are on loan; and Maupay and Patterson are sold (or loaned).

It'll be sound…

4 loans
2 frees
4 perm deals
= 10

No problem. You'll be sorted by lunch time Robert. Where do we sign the cheques.

Tony #51 and Danny #56,

Davies has experienced a catastrophic two seasons with the Blades. He has missed 44 games, mostly due to hamstring injuries, and has been open about his struggles with mental health issues as well.

He still has a year remaining on his contract, so if his club wins promotion this weekend, he's back in the Premier League. Which would have to be considered something of a miracle.

It's a valid point, Robert, and one I've called out for the past few years.

We've realistically been surviving off a squad of about 14 players. Once the injuries and suspensions kick in, and we scratch the surface, we are down to the kids and struggling.

I know we differ on this, and I respect your view, but I'd like to see Armstrong remain at Everton. He's had half a season and proven himself in the Championship in difficult circumstances. Time to see what he can do for us in my opinion. He's back at Finch Farm now and has just signed a new contract.

Mike G. I hope so. I always wanted him to succeed and he can if he finds consistency. He has the ability.

Maupay. There's another one I'd even forgot was still on our books.

We all know we need a goalscorer. We haven't had one since Lukaku.

If only we could find a good one… and yet if you check out the Serie A top scorers for this season, numbers 2 and 3 on the list both played for us (Kean and Lookman). We can find them but just can't use them!! Let's hope Everton 2.0 can utilise good players better.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/italian-serie-a/top-scorers

After last night, any more stories of Branthwaite to Man Utd must be just media stories. If he leaves, it'll be to one of the Champions League teams.

No way would he move to a team below us, especially one that surely will be a mess for a few years to come.

Tony # 63, neither Kean nor Lookman was given any meaningful chance by Everton. Both arrived as very promising young players at a club in a mess.

We will hopefully find that greater stability and carefully managed route to the first team enables us to get the most out of future prospects like Armstrong and Chermiti and Graham.

I've followed Kean, maybe not so much Lookman.

Both had reported question marks over their attitude, as did Anthony Gordon, even when he was coming through the academy.

I don't mind a bit of attitude in a player, but it has to be channeled correctly.

In my humble opinion, good young players in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Tbf Moise Kean didn't look like a player when he was with us. He also hardly lit up other clubs after he left Everton.

Same with Lookman, although he did show a bit more than Kean imo when at Goodison. I don't remember there being much regret when both left?

It does go to show though that players can develop and improve in their mid to late twenties. There is a tendency to write players off if they aren't immediately hitting the heights when they break through.

Liam, I think we were pleased to sell Kean and Lookman by that stage because both clearly wanted out and we made very good money on the sales.

My point is more that we didn’t offer them much of a chance to succeed with us - hence they wanted out fairly soon after turning up.

We were an absolute basket case of a club.

Yes Robert, I get your point mate and wasnt actually questioning it.

I was more saying that even when they got a game they weren't brilliant. Kean, for one, looked to me like he was miles away and his transformation at Fiorentina I didn't see coming.

Let's hope we are not a basket case any longer. The issue will always be giving time for players to develop. It's very difficult in the PL now. If a player doesn't hit the heights straight away, they are often written off.

On another topic, Robert. I know you know your players, especially up and coming ones.

Chermiti - do you think he's got real potential? Ive seen him in the first team games and also watched a few U21s he's played in. I must admit to being rather underwhelmed.

Robert 68

I think your last sentence summed up why some youngsters struggled to make an impact. Young players need 2 things that very few clubs provide that's time and patience. I always thought Lookman had more about him than Kean when they were here although playing as a lone striker is the hardest position on the field.

But if we are to flourish in our new stadium then it will be through astute buying and encouraging the youngsters. I have to say I am a little surprised that Roman Dixon didnt get more game time, in his only start against Spurs against 2 very quick wingers I thought he did well. But I don't watch the U21s or see him in training everyday.
Young Harrison Armstrong looks an excellent prospect and I hope he isn't sent on loan again, he had many MOM games for Derby so I don't see another loan spell benefitting him or the club. Also I know he has been injured but I would have liked to see a bit more of Chermetti again he looks to have something about him.

Liam # 70 on Chermiti he has missed a lot of football last season and needs games. U21s is a complete waste of time as the standard is so low (below non league).

Unless Moyes decides he’s worth 10 or more first team starts then he needs to be on loan to develop.

Only then will it start to become clear to fans what his level is.

Robert, you are bang on about the U21s level of football. It's like walking football at times.

This is the problem isn't it? How do we know if the players have real potential if we don't give them games? I'm all for loaning them out, but even then it can give a false impression (especially in lower divisions).

Robert @ 68, spot on.

The chaos at the club since 2016 - 3 DoFs, 8 managers, PSR - made it impossible for young players at the club to navigate a player pathway to the first team squad.

Kean, Lookman, Vlasic, DCL, Kenny, Davies, Holgate. Godfrey, Simms and Dobbin have to take accountability of course, but they had no stable foundations to develop at the club (and could see this clearly).

I know we are massively short in squad size this summer, but the best thing we can do for Chermiti, Dixon and Harrison is send them on loan next season.

Off topic but didn’t know where to post this:-

I haven’t seen anything from Jamie Crowley for a while.
Jamie are you OK?

He was on the Live Forum on Sunday, Laurie.

Steve @ 58, my comment was bit tongue in cheek but, if he could do a job like Scott Carson has at City working with younger keepers, then why not?

I think Moysie's missus has been on a shoppingg trip to London as now there's talk of Mitchell from Fulham.

Anyone fancy heading south to paddle in the channel at Brighton so we can be linked with Lamptey?

I know there's many who prefer to keep young talent at the club rather than send on loan.

Just to give some perspective, here is how many players are rivals are sending out on loan:

Chelsea: 24
Villa: 23
Brighton: 23
Man City: 18
Palace: 19
Liverpool: 17
Bournemouth: 16
Ipswich: 16
Forest: 16
West Ham: 15
Spurs: 15
Saints: 15
Man Utd: 14
Newcastle: 11
Brentford: 12
Everton: 9

Quite illuminating.

I’m hearing Alcaraz has signed? Is this true??

No mate, not yet. 😉

Iain @ 87, is that Mitchell from Fulham or Palace?

I like the Palace guy

Brandon Williams…

Ex-Man Utd player sentenced over high-speed crash

'Too much money too young' – what happened to Brandon Williams?

Looks like we got another Billy Kenny and George Green.

The timing of this looks about right but I thought I had seen some sharper comment on transfer business.

From Moyes on TalkShite: "I suspect us to be well supported in the transfer market. I don't think it will be outrageous but I think we'll be able to do a bit of business,” said Moyes on talkSPORT Breakfast hosted by former Rangers player Ally McCoist.

"The new owners have come in and we're trying to find our way with them. They're American and we are just trying to catch up with things.

"So there are a lot of things we are trying to put in place. I've got a good idea of what the club needs and what the people want. And moving to a new stadium and what it's going to mean for them as well."

Report filed, back to beer.

Dale,

Moyes said it – need money or similar – when he was interviewed on the pitch in the post-match goodbye ceremony.

Guardian reporting we are in strongly for Delap and Doak. Moyes quoted talking about his wish to sign Delap but acknowledging "we are probably behind others at the moment".

Both would be excellent signings, them alongside a quality right-back and we will look a different outfit. Free signings at left-back and centre-midfield (Gomes please!) and I could get very excited about next season and our future.

Either way, the confirmation of our transfer intent is a positive sign.

Manchester United also look set to sell England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, 20, in a bid to ease financial pressure on the club

US US US come on, he wouldn't have to move his furniture, he would fall in love with us and us with him .... Do it whoever is in charge ... and Matheus Fernandes at Saints is one for us too. Come home Romalu, Moise, and Ademola

Napoli won Serie A well. Scott McTominay scoring 12, 4 assists in 34 games.

I thought he was the type of all action midfielder we should have gone for last summer, and said he'd walk into our midfield. Some derided that comment, but here he is with a league title and a shout of player of the season.

What Man Utd would do for him now, instead of Mount, Ugarte, Casemiro on huge wages.

You are the bluest of blues Mark.

I doesn't need explaining. It just is. Those who don't get it don't understand.

Talking of US players, and as we approach the summer, what are the views on Weston McKennie from our US cohort? Currently with Juventus, had a loan at Leeds. I watched him live play for Schalke a few times and was impressed.

A very industrious, hard working box-to-box midfielder, but is versatile and can play in a number of positions. He's still only 26.

Ian, we might well have got him for £15-20M; snip. I'm actually really pleased for him. He deserves this and what a goal on the night that counted.

Hope he stays with Conte at Napoli. Sure he will. Napoli remind me of us: port city, '80s poverty, laughed at by the capital city, astonishing fans.

At Man Utd, McTominay's problem has been that he's not as good as the top Ferguson era midfielders. Therefore undervalued and overlooked as the club tried (and failed) to find better. What a mess they have made.

He'd have been good for us but there hasn't been a time in the last 5 years when we could have afforded McTominay. He cost Napoli €30.5m.

Weird quirk of fate regarding the Serie A top scorers (or Capocannonieri as Football Italia fans will remember).

I wonder what sort of careers Kean and Lookman would have had with us, had they arrived – like Lukaku – at the team Martinez built immediately after Moyes. Personally, I think they would have thrived.

Hopefully the recruitment team find a few young talents like that this summer – they are out there. Sadly, I don't think Mainoo will be one of them. He'll be courted by the top Champions League sides – but we might get the bargain version – Angel Gomes – on a free from Lille.

Your first paragraph says it, Robert.

Sir Alex set the bar. How do you live up to that?

We sort of had it with Howard Kendall's first reign and, certainly for my generation, that is how I measure Everton, because I truly believe that is what we can and will be again.

You'll have to excuse my emotion. I am still recovering from last Sunday and getting ready for the trip to the North East tomorrow.

I'm still waiting for us to be linked to players who weren't heavily rumoured targets under Thelwell.

I suspect there will be a few very low-profile players coming in – but nothing rumoured as yet.

I do like the look of Ben Doak I have to say. Might we hold our noses and pay the RS £25M?

I see where Moyes held talks with Delap, he's talking to other clubs as well.

Isn't it a massive change that we're looking for players early instead of the end of the window, and even then trying to sign players with no money upfront, unbelievable.

I read that Moyes said the club have spoken to Delap, but admits that we are up against some Champions League qualifiers, so may be difficult.

He also went on to say that having 5 loan players, as we do at present, is far too many, and says it should be nearer 1 or 2. He says they have had discussions over Michael Keane and centre-back cover for next season. Apparently everybody out of contract or on loan will find out their fate on Monday.

Obviously Doucoure and Young are definitely leaving. So a busy summer for Moyes and our team to attract the players they want as well as trimming the size of the squad.

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Rumour Mill — Week of 25 May 2025