21/01/2026 6comments  |  Jump to last

As the January transfer window is in full swing, clubs across the country seek to inject their squads with fresh faces.

Everton had an active summer window, but it is clear they are not the finished product, and new players are required in multiple positions. An area of the field that has drawn a lot of debate is the forward line, particularly the centre forward role.

Strikers such as Wilson Isidor, Youssef En-Nesyri, and even former talisman Romelu Lukaku have been linked with the Toffees since the window opener, but nothing has substantially materialised.

Although Everton’s centre forwards have been underwhelming this season, the Blues should focus on other positions before bringing in a new striker.

The past few weeks have highlighted weaknesses in various departments of David Moyes’ squad, and questions still linger over the possibility of signing a right back - something that hasn’t been done since 2023.

Another point to note is how Thierno Barry would react to Everton purchasing a new striker?

At 23 years old, Barry is still learning his trade. A new striker could come in and take the Frenchman under their wing, but could also force the Blues’ number 11 out of the starting lineup and back into the realm of inconsistent minutes, in a period he seems to be progressing. After a tough start, Barry has now scored three goals in his last four league appearances.

The potential purchase of a striker could create more problems than it would solve. On top of recruiting a new player, this could also force the club into finding a new club for Beto, who would see reduced minutes should another forward be added to the squad. At present, it’s unclear whether there are suitors.

The Guinea-Bissau international meets the criteria as cover for Barry, and there’s an argument that other areas are in greater need of investment.

Moyes has stated that reinforcements to his squad would be welcome, but the club will not be dishing out huge sums of money.

With relatively little money to spend, the Blues should consider other areas on the pitch before swooping in for a new striker.

 

Reader Comments (6)

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Paul Hewitt
1 Posted 21/01/2026 at 11:37:39
Is that a trick question?
Jim Bennings
2 Posted 21/01/2026 at 11:39:36
C'mon, we still are light up front and light all over the pitch.

If any deals in any of our problematic areas were to arise, then we need to be all over them.

Nick Page
3 Posted 21/01/2026 at 12:09:08
Buy a striker

Buy a right back

And sodding well get on with it, Everton.

This season there is a real chance of finishing in European places given how tight the league is. We’ve had absolutely enough of relegation battles and being out of cup comps early. So give the fans something to bloody cheer about on the pitch. Make it happen.

Frank Sheppard
4 Posted 21/01/2026 at 12:46:33
“ do we need a striker “ - I would say we need two. If Barry were to be injured- we would have to play Keane as a CF, or Illy as a false 9.

I realise Beto is a character and has some supporters- BUT- he is nowhere near good enough- any time he is on the pitch- we effectively only have 10 players ( assuming no sendings off already).

Mike Powell
5 Posted 21/01/2026 at 12:54:29
We have needed a striker for years,and while we're at it get a right back as well
Jim Bennings
6 Posted 21/01/2026 at 13:02:41
Grealish ruled out for 3 months, expected to be confirmed.


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