06/08/2026
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Everton’s summer search for a long-term successor to Seamus Coleman at right-back hit a snag this week following reports that negotiations with Celtic for Canadian international Alistair Johnston have stalled, leaving the transfer on the verge of collapse.
David Moyes was reported to have personally contacted Celtic manager Martin O’Neill to express Everton's intent to sign the 27-year-old full-back. Johnston apparently signaled his desire to make the move to the Premier League. However, negotiations between the two clubs have encountered a major problem in terms of valuation: Celtic are holding firm for a fee in excess of £15M.
Everton's initial approach structured a package around £12M up front plus add-ons, which Parkhead chiefs rejected, and it appears in true TFG negotiating style, the Everton contingent have turned on their heels and walked away.
Celtic face a crucial Uefa Champions League play-off tie against Austrian side LASK in late August. Martin O'Neill and the Celtic hierarchy are extremely reluctant to part with key starters before securing group-stage football and the substantial financial windfall that comes with it.
With Celtic refusing to budge on price or timing, Everton representatives have started exploring contingency options rather than being held to ransom. Guéla Doué (Strasbourg) and Ridle Baku (RB Leipzig) have both emerged as primary alternatives being monitored by Everton's elite recruitment team.
Sources suggest Everton's interest in Johnston was genuine — Moyes's direct manager-to-manager call confirms that Everton viewed the Canadian right-back as a concrete option. However, unless Celtic lower their demands late in the window or Everton decide to meet the £15M price tag after selling fringe players, Moyes and the recruitment team will likely shift focus to Doué or Baku in the coming days.
Reader Comments (114)
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Ian Bennett
2 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:49:31
2 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:49:31
Christy -- he might well be the back-up plan.
We've no idea if he is the first choice or 5th/6th on the list.
We've no idea if he is the first choice or 5th/6th on the list.
Frank Worrall
3 Posted 06/08/2026 at 15:36:30
3 Posted 06/08/2026 at 15:36:30
To read that the proposed Johnston transfer from Celtic has fallen through is not only extremely disappointing, but unforgiveable! Quibbling about the cost of acquiring a first-class defender is tantamount to penny-pinching on the grand scale, either by the recruitment team or more likely, the Club owners.
Moyes desperately needs a new full-back. Aznou must finally be used properly and regularly and not as a bit-part player. The same applies to Armstrong, Dibling and Alcaraz, otherwise we will end up with a repeat of last season's finish and 50,000 frustrated, not to say, angry fans!
Moyes desperately needs a new full-back. Aznou must finally be used properly and regularly and not as a bit-part player. The same applies to Armstrong, Dibling and Alcaraz, otherwise we will end up with a repeat of last season's finish and 50,000 frustrated, not to say, angry fans!
John Keating
4 Posted 06/08/2026 at 15:47:27
4 Posted 06/08/2026 at 15:47:27
They want £14M???????
Surely there has to be a dot between the 1 and the 4??? Nonsense, absolute nonsense!
At that price, I'd put Merlin there and tell Celtic to do one.
Surely there has to be a dot between the 1 and the 4??? Nonsense, absolute nonsense!
At that price, I'd put Merlin there and tell Celtic to do one.
Tony Abrahams
5 Posted 06/08/2026 at 16:00:31
5 Posted 06/08/2026 at 16:00:31
You haven’t been very impressed with him over the years you have been watching him play then John?
John Keating
6 Posted 06/08/2026 at 16:41:05
6 Posted 06/08/2026 at 16:41:05
Tony, I have indeed. I'm up here in Edinburgh so balancing games at Hibs and Everton is a real challenge. However, I have seen him in the flesh a number of times and obviously on the TV.
In my opinion, he is a decent right-back and nothing more. Certainly nowhere near bloody £14M!!! Ridiculous!
You have to understand that Celtic and Rangers buy players for nowt but want top dollar selling them on. They have this old-fashioned idea that they can get anyone for nothing because they're Celtic and Rangers. Look at their net spend.
Sorry but not for me, I'm afraid.
In my opinion, he is a decent right-back and nothing more. Certainly nowhere near bloody £14M!!! Ridiculous!
You have to understand that Celtic and Rangers buy players for nowt but want top dollar selling them on. They have this old-fashioned idea that they can get anyone for nothing because they're Celtic and Rangers. Look at their net spend.
Sorry but not for me, I'm afraid.
Christy Ring
7 Posted 06/08/2026 at 17:20:50
7 Posted 06/08/2026 at 17:20:50
I've watched Johnston at Celtic for the last few seasons, even in the World Cup he impressed for Canada? So are we looking for "A" fullback for £12M, or less?
I see where West Ham signed the Brighton full-back, so is Wan-Bissaka available, for me the best choice by far for £15M-£20M. We're 3 years trying to buy a full-back?
Our owners, by the way, have no problem spending big at Roma.
I see where West Ham signed the Brighton full-back, so is Wan-Bissaka available, for me the best choice by far for £15M-£20M. We're 3 years trying to buy a full-back?
Our owners, by the way, have no problem spending big at Roma.
Jay Harris
8 Posted 06/08/2026 at 17:30:25
8 Posted 06/08/2026 at 17:30:25
Christy, I agree.
I seem to remember Roma have acquired 2 right backs that we were linked with while our elite recruitment team have sat on their arses and assumed they can just go and get targets.
It also doesn't help that the media are calling Everton a second-rate Premier League club and advising players to swerve EFC.
Someone needs to address that too.
I seem to remember Roma have acquired 2 right backs that we were linked with while our elite recruitment team have sat on their arses and assumed they can just go and get targets.
It also doesn't help that the media are calling Everton a second-rate Premier League club and advising players to swerve EFC.
Someone needs to address that too.
Mark Taylor
9 Posted 06/08/2026 at 17:55:55
9 Posted 06/08/2026 at 17:55:55
If you take the number of teams in Europe's major leagues, France, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Germany and Netherlands, with each having c 20 clubs, there's 120 right-backs. Taking the top clubs in lesser leagues adds, say another 40. Then the best clubs in the rest of the world, has to be another 40. 200 in total, not including any reserves.
You can probably filter out a couple of dozen because they play at bigger clubs than us and/or in the Champions League. Some of the remaining 180 may not be good enough but surely among the 100 plus that remain, we can find one good enough and interested in playing in the best, highest-paid league in the world?
You can probably filter out a couple of dozen because they play at bigger clubs than us and/or in the Champions League. Some of the remaining 180 may not be good enough but surely among the 100 plus that remain, we can find one good enough and interested in playing in the best, highest-paid league in the world?
David West
10 Posted 06/08/2026 at 18:09:56
10 Posted 06/08/2026 at 18:09:56
I wouldn't call Johnston a first-class right-back. He's a right-back, which means he's probably better than what we have, but I'm not in the camp of "Just get any right-back!"
Everton were probably thinking he could do a job, fill the gap for around £8-10M... then if they are looking for £14-15M... move on.
It's like Norgaard: he's not one for the long term, he's there to fill a gap. If you're paying £15M, you can get better than Johnston in my view.
David West
11 Posted 06/08/2026 at 18:15:58
11 Posted 06/08/2026 at 18:15:58
In fairness, if you're a right-back and Everton and Roma come for you, where are you going?
Come on, Champions League or 13th in the Premier League with no European football?
Come on, Champions League or 13th in the Premier League with no European football?
I think Roma are after a different level of players to us, or can attract a different level of player. I don't think Dan Friedkin is picking what right-back is going where!
Raymond Fox
12 Posted 06/08/2026 at 19:36:46
12 Posted 06/08/2026 at 19:36:46
We already have a Scotland full back but no one seems to rate him.
Is he so bad, Moyes won't play him? I must admit it's got me somewhat puzzled as I didn't see a bad player when I have watched him. Either play him or sell him, what's the point of keeping him here and having him rot on the bench?
John Keating
13 Posted 06/08/2026 at 20:18:51
13 Posted 06/08/2026 at 20:18:51
Raymond,
I saw a bit of our unwanted full-back when he was at Ibrox and was very impressed. When we signed him, I was extremely happy and thought it was a great long-term deal.
Something has happened along the way. I haven't a clue, don't think any if us have. He's not quoted by anyone so maybe best for both parties to move on. A shame really because I thought he was without doubt our future right-back.
I saw a bit of our unwanted full-back when he was at Ibrox and was very impressed. When we signed him, I was extremely happy and thought it was a great long-term deal.
Something has happened along the way. I haven't a clue, don't think any if us have. He's not quoted by anyone so maybe best for both parties to move on. A shame really because I thought he was without doubt our future right-back.
Don Wright
14 Posted 06/08/2026 at 20:23:16
14 Posted 06/08/2026 at 20:23:16
Can I point out that Martin O'Neill is in hospital at the moment so probably not involved in transfers, I should think.
Might hold thing up anyway?
Might hold thing up anyway?
Jonathan Oppenheimer
15 Posted 06/08/2026 at 20:54:46
15 Posted 06/08/2026 at 20:54:46
At this point, the name doesn't matter. By the start of the season, get a right-back in who starts in a top 5 league or Champions League squad, excites us more than Patterson, and has a pulse.
If we fail to do that, leadership has no excuses and should be derided for at least the next 10 months.
If we fail to do that, leadership has no excuses and should be derided for at least the next 10 months.
Christy Ring
16 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:24:07
16 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:24:07
John #13,
I'm a bit perplexed: you saw a lot of Johnston, and you weren't impressed, but you saw Patterson at Rangers, and were very impressed?
Considering he played 13 games in 18 months for Rangers in the Scottish Premiership, how many games did you see him play??
I'm a bit perplexed: you saw a lot of Johnston, and you weren't impressed, but you saw Patterson at Rangers, and were very impressed?
Considering he played 13 games in 18 months for Rangers in the Scottish Premiership, how many games did you see him play??
Raymond Smyth
17 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:46:21
17 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:46:21
Where do we get these recruitment clowns from? How hard is it to buy a right-back... 3 years now at least! Total incompetence!
Stop putting all your eggs in one basket! Why didn't we go for Sanchez as we were after him last season? Less than £10M for a Spanish international, 22 years old! Goes to Bournemouth -- a properly run club!
Stop putting all your eggs in one basket! Why didn't we go for Sanchez as we were after him last season? Less than £10M for a Spanish international, 22 years old! Goes to Bournemouth -- a properly run club!
Paul Hewitt
18 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:48:12
18 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:48:12
I did know it was so difficult to sign a RB. Seems other clubs do it without a problem. We've been waiting 3 seasons I'd say now.
Mike Gaynes
19 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:52:30
19 Posted 06/08/2026 at 21:52:30
I would just point out that Everton contract chief Nick Hammond saved the club about £14-15 million out of pocket with tough negotiating tactics on both Hayden Hackney and Tyrique George, which included walking away from the table on George. He eventually got his preferred price on both and closed the deals.
(Same thing Dan Friedkin did with Mosh when he was negotiating to buy Everton. Walked away for a couple of months and got a better deal.)
I love that Everton aren't rolling over for seller's prices, especially on decent-but-not-superstar players like Johnston. One Dibling overpay is enough.
If we miss out on a good right back over £2-3m, that will certainly be grounds for all the rage we can muster, but I don't see that happening. We will get a right back. If it takes a couple more weeks, even up to the last day, so be it.
Raymond #12, as I've mentioned before, none of his managers wanted to play him. Lampard, Dyche and Moyes all took good long looks at Patterson on the pitch... and returned him to the bench. Along the way he lost out to not just O'Brien and Ashley Young but nonentities like Holgate and Godfrey. We will likely never know what went wrong, but all three of his managers saw it the same.
(Same thing Dan Friedkin did with Mosh when he was negotiating to buy Everton. Walked away for a couple of months and got a better deal.)
I love that Everton aren't rolling over for seller's prices, especially on decent-but-not-superstar players like Johnston. One Dibling overpay is enough.
If we miss out on a good right back over £2-3m, that will certainly be grounds for all the rage we can muster, but I don't see that happening. We will get a right back. If it takes a couple more weeks, even up to the last day, so be it.
Raymond #12, as I've mentioned before, none of his managers wanted to play him. Lampard, Dyche and Moyes all took good long looks at Patterson on the pitch... and returned him to the bench. Along the way he lost out to not just O'Brien and Ashley Young but nonentities like Holgate and Godfrey. We will likely never know what went wrong, but all three of his managers saw it the same.
Jimmy Salt
20 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:07:28
20 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:07:28
Couldn't give a toss about saving money or who it is.
The fact we have needed a right-back for at least 2 seasons and still... still haven't got one is a sham.
The fact we have needed a right-back for at least 2 seasons and still... still haven't got one is a sham.
Christy Ring
21 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:18:27
21 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:18:27
Isn't it ironic, when we were totally penniless, we paid £15M for Maupay?
Brendan McLaughlin
22 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:29:50
22 Posted 06/08/2026 at 22:29:50
Christy #21
No point maupay over spilt milk!
No point maupay over spilt milk!
Mark Taylor
23 Posted 06/08/2026 at 23:37:45
23 Posted 06/08/2026 at 23:37:45
Mike a good right back at £2-3M?
I know we're poor and we're certainly not shopping at Harrods, but you don't get quality full-backs at that price, except as a fluke, and we can afford more.
Did you miss a decimal point?
I know we're poor and we're certainly not shopping at Harrods, but you don't get quality full-backs at that price, except as a fluke, and we can afford more.
Did you miss a decimal point?
Brendan McLaughlin
24 Posted 06/08/2026 at 23:46:25
24 Posted 06/08/2026 at 23:46:25
Mark #23
We're talking £3M in differing valuations... £12M to £15M, for example.
Not players in the £2-3M bracket, mate.
We're talking £3M in differing valuations... £12M to £15M, for example.
Not players in the £2-3M bracket, mate.
Paul Kossoff
25 Posted 06/08/2026 at 23:50:22
25 Posted 06/08/2026 at 23:50:22
Would Celtic take Patterson in a swap?
Ian Wilkins
26 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:03:26
26 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:03:26
He's a £10M right-back, no other suitors; Celtic pushing for £15M.
As he's ordinary at best, we should park up and seek better.
As he's ordinary at best, we should park up and seek better.
Mark Wilson
27 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:05:01
27 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:05:01
Mike Gaynes #19, spot on.
So many managers and not one vote of confidence in Patterson, who even found himself with a brief bit of World Cup experience, not to mention qualifying. Nobody at Everton seems to rate him and recent managers have spent a lot of time trying to sell him.
We have spent 3 years replacing Coleman. You rarely see transfer policy managed like this. However, admitting that frustration, it feels equally frustrating because the infamous transfer committee of such repute that I can't name any of them, may still be on the verge of pulling off a £75M fee for a player we paid £15M for just a few years ago...
It's all so bloody Everton. Moyes pulling off a small miracle keeping us in the league is the very very notable exception but nothing seems to change and hope is all we ever start a season with and most of all know it's fruitless and pray to be proved wrong.
Transfer management at our club is the main cause of soul destroying activity from an already stagnating approach that I guess will keep us up but more 14th or 13th place finishes are on the way. Harsh? Please show me how but I say again: How else does it feel to you?
The rest of the top ten are again improving and huge amounts of money are being spent. We have the filthy rich owners, don't we? But we now play second fiddle to Roma.
The Patterson saga and buys like Dibling, Barry, counter the good time of profit from a couple of big sales? Sigh, again, how does it feel to you?
I'd respect the well-argued optimistic feel and have no issue being mocked if it all comes good. "I told you so" would be amazing and incredibly welcome in 12 months time.
But in the meantime, I will be off to see us start the season soon, hoping Johnston arrives, or an unknown does in his place, and that lad up front from Turkey.
It's still all about hope but at least the cheese and mushroom pie is showing consistency we hoped for... I bloody love it all though god knows why!
So many managers and not one vote of confidence in Patterson, who even found himself with a brief bit of World Cup experience, not to mention qualifying. Nobody at Everton seems to rate him and recent managers have spent a lot of time trying to sell him.
We have spent 3 years replacing Coleman. You rarely see transfer policy managed like this. However, admitting that frustration, it feels equally frustrating because the infamous transfer committee of such repute that I can't name any of them, may still be on the verge of pulling off a £75M fee for a player we paid £15M for just a few years ago...
It's all so bloody Everton. Moyes pulling off a small miracle keeping us in the league is the very very notable exception but nothing seems to change and hope is all we ever start a season with and most of all know it's fruitless and pray to be proved wrong.
Transfer management at our club is the main cause of soul destroying activity from an already stagnating approach that I guess will keep us up but more 14th or 13th place finishes are on the way. Harsh? Please show me how but I say again: How else does it feel to you?
The rest of the top ten are again improving and huge amounts of money are being spent. We have the filthy rich owners, don't we? But we now play second fiddle to Roma.
The Patterson saga and buys like Dibling, Barry, counter the good time of profit from a couple of big sales? Sigh, again, how does it feel to you?
I'd respect the well-argued optimistic feel and have no issue being mocked if it all comes good. "I told you so" would be amazing and incredibly welcome in 12 months time.
But in the meantime, I will be off to see us start the season soon, hoping Johnston arrives, or an unknown does in his place, and that lad up front from Turkey.
It's still all about hope but at least the cheese and mushroom pie is showing consistency we hoped for... I bloody love it all though god knows why!
Mark Taylor
28 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:22:12
28 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:22:12
Brendan, thanks, I see what you mean.
I guess whether saving £2-3M is a good idea depends on:
1) The total transfer value and thus the % saved; and
2) What you bought instead of (if anyone at all).
I guess whether saving £2-3M is a good idea depends on:
1) The total transfer value and thus the % saved; and
2) What you bought instead of (if anyone at all).
Lester Yip
29 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:29:44
29 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:29:44
The fact that Johnston is keen for a move to the EPL means Everton has the upper hand in the negotiation. And there's no other club chasing means they have to come back to us if they want the cash.
Johnston is not Riquelme. Just move on to next if we can't get him.
Johnston is not Riquelme. Just move on to next if we can't get him.
Paul Griffiths
30 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:55:47
30 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:55:47
Of course this deal is in trouble. It's for a right-back, innit! I find it hilarious that, under our new deep pockets owner, we haggle about £3M.. when we desperately -- desperately -- need a right-back.
Okay, so Saint Daniel walked away from the table and walked back a real risk, by the way -- to buy us at a very agreeable price.
Erm, you can't do this all the time, not least when it comes to transfers. If we keep on doing this, we will lose players and our reputation for wheeling and dealing like this will spread like the oil to get those cars started home and abroad.
This negotiating, erm... 'strategy' for a club like us is not sustainable, especially when the fee is 'just' £15M.
We do not look like smart negotiators or recruiters in this particular deal (and, if we continue like this, we will become a known entity).
This back and forth might work in Toyota-land but there is no guarantee that it will do so in the cut and thrust of the transfer market. I believe that we got away on one with Hayden Hackney, but that does not at all mean that this is the route that we should always follow.
Pragmatic? Possibly in some case. Pragmatic? Might it work on the last day of the window or the few before when we traditionally 'pounce'? Other clubs know our situation and strategy and that gives them leverage.
This 'make a low-bid' stuff will not work when there is competition for the player in question. It is making for an already underwhelming window in which two new players have been signed (one of whom, we were told yesterday, was not actually recruited by Cox and Co).
Our crack recruitment team have 24 days to pull something out of a hat. It looks like they have royally screwed up in the case of a not first- but second-rate right-back. They now have 3½ weeks to get us a striker (two would be ideal), right-back and left-back (others and I feel like this also, want someone else out on the left -- I hope to Sheedy that it is not Grealish).
I don't at this point see much innovation and creativity over the next few weeks. I expect loans and this budget bargaining and, the more it continues, the more we will be from any sort of progress on the pitch.
Selling is important too, not least if we have to raise funds. Not much action there up to now. This is Cox territory. I have no idea how involved we have been so far. I have no idea which players -- if any -- Cox and Co feel ought to be moved on.
But I hope that they are on the phones, pitching, erm... 'enticing' stuff about -- for me -- Beto, Barry, and McNeil. But as of now, it seems that Iroegbunam is the only one attracting attention... and that from teams actually beneath us.
But, as always, I end up with: let's hope and let's wait and see and I would love it, just love it, if my hunches are proved wrong.
Okay, so Saint Daniel walked away from the table and walked back a real risk, by the way -- to buy us at a very agreeable price.
Erm, you can't do this all the time, not least when it comes to transfers. If we keep on doing this, we will lose players and our reputation for wheeling and dealing like this will spread like the oil to get those cars started home and abroad.
This negotiating, erm... 'strategy' for a club like us is not sustainable, especially when the fee is 'just' £15M.
We do not look like smart negotiators or recruiters in this particular deal (and, if we continue like this, we will become a known entity).
This back and forth might work in Toyota-land but there is no guarantee that it will do so in the cut and thrust of the transfer market. I believe that we got away on one with Hayden Hackney, but that does not at all mean that this is the route that we should always follow.
Pragmatic? Possibly in some case. Pragmatic? Might it work on the last day of the window or the few before when we traditionally 'pounce'? Other clubs know our situation and strategy and that gives them leverage.
This 'make a low-bid' stuff will not work when there is competition for the player in question. It is making for an already underwhelming window in which two new players have been signed (one of whom, we were told yesterday, was not actually recruited by Cox and Co).
Our crack recruitment team have 24 days to pull something out of a hat. It looks like they have royally screwed up in the case of a not first- but second-rate right-back. They now have 3½ weeks to get us a striker (two would be ideal), right-back and left-back (others and I feel like this also, want someone else out on the left -- I hope to Sheedy that it is not Grealish).
I don't at this point see much innovation and creativity over the next few weeks. I expect loans and this budget bargaining and, the more it continues, the more we will be from any sort of progress on the pitch.
Selling is important too, not least if we have to raise funds. Not much action there up to now. This is Cox territory. I have no idea how involved we have been so far. I have no idea which players -- if any -- Cox and Co feel ought to be moved on.
But I hope that they are on the phones, pitching, erm... 'enticing' stuff about -- for me -- Beto, Barry, and McNeil. But as of now, it seems that Iroegbunam is the only one attracting attention... and that from teams actually beneath us.
But, as always, I end up with: let's hope and let's wait and see and I would love it, just love it, if my hunches are proved wrong.
Paul Griffiths
31 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:58:10
31 Posted 06/08/2026 at 00:58:10
Mark Wilson 27:
Moyes pulling off a small miracle keeping us in the league.
I just can't stop chuckling at this latest bout of Moyesturbation.
Moyes pulling off a small miracle keeping us in the league.
I just can't stop chuckling at this latest bout of Moyesturbation.
Dale Self
32 Posted 06/08/2026 at 01:12:54
32 Posted 06/08/2026 at 01:12:54
Another take on the delay: it causes Moyes to spend valuable training time on Plan B with Rohl at right-back. This could pay off in the long run, as it has with Garner, but it seems like we give up much more going forward with Rohl on the back line.
Fortunately, we may have resolved the central defensive midfielder issue with Norgaard. So, at least it is down to one position where we are cobbling together something.
Still though, our strength will have to come from an internal chemistry between the midfielders. We won't be able to buy our way to the top. Our most gifted players need a period of settling into positions, generating familiar runs and ball distribution.
If Rohl is the only position wanderer, maybe alright. If we end up with another unexpected injury, like Dewsbury-Hall's v Chelsea, we could lose substantial time and waste some asset valuations scrapping to find our way through it.
Fortunately, we may have resolved the central defensive midfielder issue with Norgaard. So, at least it is down to one position where we are cobbling together something.
Still though, our strength will have to come from an internal chemistry between the midfielders. We won't be able to buy our way to the top. Our most gifted players need a period of settling into positions, generating familiar runs and ball distribution.
If Rohl is the only position wanderer, maybe alright. If we end up with another unexpected injury, like Dewsbury-Hall's v Chelsea, we could lose substantial time and waste some asset valuations scrapping to find our way through it.
Mike Gaynes
33 Posted 07/08/2026 at 01:31:51
33 Posted 07/08/2026 at 01:31:51
Mark #27, the years of failure are irrelevant. The transfer executives and scouts who failed us all those years are gone. The owners who wouldn't or couldn't pay up are gone. All that matters is the here and now.
The new ownership has been in situ for 20 months, the CEO 14, the recruiting execs 13 and 11 and 10. This is their first summer window together. I will judge them from this moment. History starts now.
We will assuredly screw up again -- lots of transfers fail, just ask the RS who spent $500M last summer and went from 84 points to 60 -- but hopefully these new people will have a higher batting average and wiser priorities than their predecessors.
The new ownership has been in situ for 20 months, the CEO 14, the recruiting execs 13 and 11 and 10. This is their first summer window together. I will judge them from this moment. History starts now.
We will assuredly screw up again -- lots of transfers fail, just ask the RS who spent $500M last summer and went from 84 points to 60 -- but hopefully these new people will have a higher batting average and wiser priorities than their predecessors.
Jack Convery
34 Posted 07/08/2026 at 01:40:12
34 Posted 07/08/2026 at 01:40:12
Celtic play a Champions League qualifier against LASK on 19 & 25 August. I can't see them selling him before they know the outcome of those games.
I reckon we will get him for £13M plus add-ons.
I reckon we will get him for £13M plus add-ons.
Laurie Hartley
35 Posted 07/08/2026 at 03:02:03
35 Posted 07/08/2026 at 03:02:03
Michael - "monitored by Everton's elite recruitment team". I saw what you did there.
The signing of a proper right-back would in my opinion be a catalyst for exponential improvement in this squad. I think we should up our budget and go for a known entity. I am thinking Spence or Wan-Bissaka. I really like Spence but at £20M, I would probably go for Wan-Bissaka.
I think we might see a different Tyler Dibling with one of those two behind him.
Also at £12M, I think Jacob Murphy, even at 31, would be good business for us.
Sort that right flank out and I reckon we would get much more out of Beto and Barry.
The signing of a proper right-back would in my opinion be a catalyst for exponential improvement in this squad. I think we should up our budget and go for a known entity. I am thinking Spence or Wan-Bissaka. I really like Spence but at £20M, I would probably go for Wan-Bissaka.
I think we might see a different Tyler Dibling with one of those two behind him.
Also at £12M, I think Jacob Murphy, even at 31, would be good business for us.
Sort that right flank out and I reckon we would get much more out of Beto and Barry.
Paul Griffiths
36 Posted 07/08/2026 at 03:03:49
36 Posted 07/08/2026 at 03:03:49
Laurie - 35 - with respect, the only way to get much more from either Beto or Barry is to replace them.
Laurie Hartley
37 Posted 07/08/2026 at 03:08:17
37 Posted 07/08/2026 at 03:08:17
Paul # 36 - if we sort that right flank out I'll bet you 3/6d that one of them will score 15 goals next season.
If I am wrong I will send you a postal order at the end of the season. ;)
If I am wrong I will send you a postal order at the end of the season. ;)
Steve Brown
38 Posted 07/08/2026 at 04:16:28
38 Posted 07/08/2026 at 04:16:28
Alistair Johnston is on our C- or D-list at best.
The fact that we haven't signed him yet shows the club sees him that way -- a Championship-level back-up who no other Premier League club has an interest in.
The one non-negotiable for the recruitment team was to sign a right-back this summer. They had 12 months to prepare and they have struggled since Doué turned us down. The fact that PSG are interested in him shows that he was probably never a realistic target at this stage of his career.
I am sure we will bring in a right-back before 1 September; however, he will likely be low down on our short-list. Regardless, O'Brien will start against Crystal Palace with Rohl as main cover.
Of course, it would have been easier to attract players if we had qualified for Europe. But only 1 win in the last 8 games cost us dearly, as did the failure to back the manager in the January transfer window -- despite us having £44M headroom to spend on players under PSR rules.
What is most annoying about the window is that it is making me feel sorry for Moyes.
The fact that we haven't signed him yet shows the club sees him that way -- a Championship-level back-up who no other Premier League club has an interest in.
The one non-negotiable for the recruitment team was to sign a right-back this summer. They had 12 months to prepare and they have struggled since Doué turned us down. The fact that PSG are interested in him shows that he was probably never a realistic target at this stage of his career.
I am sure we will bring in a right-back before 1 September; however, he will likely be low down on our short-list. Regardless, O'Brien will start against Crystal Palace with Rohl as main cover.
Of course, it would have been easier to attract players if we had qualified for Europe. But only 1 win in the last 8 games cost us dearly, as did the failure to back the manager in the January transfer window -- despite us having £44M headroom to spend on players under PSR rules.
What is most annoying about the window is that it is making me feel sorry for Moyes.
Paul Griffiths
39 Posted 07/08/2026 at 05:11:55
39 Posted 07/08/2026 at 05:11:55
You're on Lawrie - 37 - I'm not backing down.
If I lose, can I pay you in Green Shield Stamps?
If I lose, can I pay you in Green Shield Stamps?
Laurie Hartley
40 Posted 07/08/2026 at 05:26:39
40 Posted 07/08/2026 at 05:26:39
Paul # 39 - that'll be fine.
Sean Herbert
41 Posted 07/08/2026 at 05:32:07
41 Posted 07/08/2026 at 05:32:07
Paul @ 30, I fully concur, it is not a strategy that will succeed in the long term.
Clubs wanting to hang on to players we are interested in will simply start to ask ridiculous sums for their players, knowing full well we will walk away. Leaving us with available players no one wants, or is interested in.
We are on course to become the ultimate bottom feeders. Leaving a position of dire need until after the season has already kicked off wouldn't put our so-called elite recruitment team in a good light.
Clubs wanting to hang on to players we are interested in will simply start to ask ridiculous sums for their players, knowing full well we will walk away. Leaving us with available players no one wants, or is interested in.
We are on course to become the ultimate bottom feeders. Leaving a position of dire need until after the season has already kicked off wouldn't put our so-called elite recruitment team in a good light.
John Keating
42 Posted 07/08/2026 at 06:17:57
42 Posted 07/08/2026 at 06:17:57
Christy @16,
I never saw Patterson in the flesh as that season was Covid so no crowds. However, as all the matches were live on the telly, I saw most if not all his games.
You have to remember he had Tavenier to displace at right-back, which then was an impossible task, so only got in when Tavenier had injuries.
I never saw Patterson in the flesh as that season was Covid so no crowds. However, as all the matches were live on the telly, I saw most if not all his games.
You have to remember he had Tavenier to displace at right-back, which then was an impossible task, so only got in when Tavenier had injuries.
Mike Gaynes
43 Posted 07/08/2026 at 06:25:34
43 Posted 07/08/2026 at 06:25:34
Sean #41, overpaying out of urgency or desperation would cast our recruitment team in an even worse light.
Tosun was a January rush job. Maupay came in just before the window closed. Nobody wants to duplicate mistakes like that.
By the way, one of our dumbest moves ever, dumping Antonee Robinson for pocket change, appears likely to bring us in a bit of repayment. If Man Utd buy him from Fulham, as expected, we get a sell-on fee of around £1.5M.
Tosun was a January rush job. Maupay came in just before the window closed. Nobody wants to duplicate mistakes like that.
By the way, one of our dumbest moves ever, dumping Antonee Robinson for pocket change, appears likely to bring us in a bit of repayment. If Man Utd buy him from Fulham, as expected, we get a sell-on fee of around £1.5M.
Winston Williamson
44 Posted 07/08/2026 at 07:01:59
44 Posted 07/08/2026 at 07:01:59
Can people stop referring to how rich our owners are in their frustrations over a lack of transfer activity. We could have the top 5 richest people in the world, with their combined wealth, as owners and we'd still not be able to splash the cash!
We are restricted by our revenue as a club! As a business! Nothing to do with our owner's wealth.
Additionally, we nearly went out of existence due to splashing the cash! We're still recovering from that period of utter stupidity!
We are cutting our cloth appropriately, whilst the owners are steadily working to increase our revenue -- and thus, our future buying power!
Yes, we need a full-back. We also cannot overspend.
We are restricted by our revenue as a club! As a business! Nothing to do with our owner's wealth.
Additionally, we nearly went out of existence due to splashing the cash! We're still recovering from that period of utter stupidity!
We are cutting our cloth appropriately, whilst the owners are steadily working to increase our revenue -- and thus, our future buying power!
Yes, we need a full-back. We also cannot overspend.
Mick O\\\'Malley
45 Posted 07/08/2026 at 07:50:36
45 Posted 07/08/2026 at 07:50:36
I'll be gutted if I see O'Brien starting at right-back in the first few games. No one, and I mean no one, will ever convince me he is a better right-back than Patterson.
The lad came in and did nothing wrong at all in our most impressive run of form with away wins at Villa and Forest. Then, lo and behold, yard dog O'Brien is fit and put back in to a position he doesn't excel at! Please make it make sense.
The lad came in and did nothing wrong at all in our most impressive run of form with away wins at Villa and Forest. Then, lo and behold, yard dog O'Brien is fit and put back in to a position he doesn't excel at! Please make it make sense.
Sean Herbert
46 Posted 07/08/2026 at 08:05:15
46 Posted 07/08/2026 at 08:05:15
Mike @43,
I totally agree with you regarding desperation purchases. But I do feel our recruitment team have had more than long enough to identify a good right-back. In fact, I would hope they have compiled a list of 5 or 6 right-backs they think would meet the requirements.
For me, a right-back should have been the first signing through the door. I do rate O'Brien but I want to see him in his natural position. I also fully agree about Robinson, I thought it was a mistake to let him go in the first place.
Winston @ 44, what are you suggesting then, we don't bother with a right-back due to lack of funds? You have absolutely no idea what amount we can, or cannot, spend; nor do I.
But the fact remains we are short of a very important part of our defence, with only 2 weeks to go prior to kick-off. Therefore, if we need to sell before we buy, wouldn't you concede that our crack recruitment team should be putting out feelers to anyone interested in the likes of McNeil etc?
I totally agree with you regarding desperation purchases. But I do feel our recruitment team have had more than long enough to identify a good right-back. In fact, I would hope they have compiled a list of 5 or 6 right-backs they think would meet the requirements.
For me, a right-back should have been the first signing through the door. I do rate O'Brien but I want to see him in his natural position. I also fully agree about Robinson, I thought it was a mistake to let him go in the first place.
Winston @ 44, what are you suggesting then, we don't bother with a right-back due to lack of funds? You have absolutely no idea what amount we can, or cannot, spend; nor do I.
But the fact remains we are short of a very important part of our defence, with only 2 weeks to go prior to kick-off. Therefore, if we need to sell before we buy, wouldn't you concede that our crack recruitment team should be putting out feelers to anyone interested in the likes of McNeil etc?
Winston Williamson
47 Posted 07/08/2026 at 08:44:28
47 Posted 07/08/2026 at 08:44:28
Sean, just as I have no idea of our budget (although a rough estimate can be given based on likely revenue), you have no idea of whether the club is touting players for sale or not.
I'm not advocating not signing a right-back, that's pure hyperbole on your part. I'm suggesting we don't have the budget to just overpay, without serious issues arising such as sanctions.
I'm suggesting the club are haggling over fees because we have to! I'm suggesting we can't just go spend whatever the fans want.
I'm also suggesting the club's recruitment team have identified players but, let's face it, no silverware or European football in years; we're just not that attractive a proposition…unless we overpay (see above).
I'm not advocating not signing a right-back, that's pure hyperbole on your part. I'm suggesting we don't have the budget to just overpay, without serious issues arising such as sanctions.
I'm suggesting the club are haggling over fees because we have to! I'm suggesting we can't just go spend whatever the fans want.
I'm also suggesting the club's recruitment team have identified players but, let's face it, no silverware or European football in years; we're just not that attractive a proposition…unless we overpay (see above).
Jeff Armstrong
48 Posted 07/08/2026 at 08:53:32
48 Posted 07/08/2026 at 08:53:32
John 42, speaking of Tavernier, he's available for free, he's 34 but could give us breathing space until January.
He's 4 years younger than Young the younger was when we got him.😉
He's 4 years younger than Young the younger was when we got him.😉
Paul Hewitt
49 Posted 07/08/2026 at 08:55:23
49 Posted 07/08/2026 at 08:55:23
Breathing space till January?
We've only needed a right-back for the last 3 seasons. How much breathing space do you want?
We've only needed a right-back for the last 3 seasons. How much breathing space do you want?
Mike Gaynes
50 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:01:07
50 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:01:07
Sean #46, what makes you think they haven't compiled such a list? I would bet they have, and are working their way through it.
But the timing of a signing depends also on the player wanting to come, the other club wanting to sell, the agent agreeing the terms, and how many other clubs are in with offers for the player.
Doue, probably the best for us, is reported to have at least six other suitors, including PSG, Chelsea and both Milan clubs. He won't be in any hurry to make a choice. So "first through the door" doesn't necessarily mean the best.
Personally, I want us to get the very best we can, and I don't care whether he arrives tomorrow or at 5 to midnight as the window is closing. If we get it done, I'll be pleased.
But the timing of a signing depends also on the player wanting to come, the other club wanting to sell, the agent agreeing the terms, and how many other clubs are in with offers for the player.
Doue, probably the best for us, is reported to have at least six other suitors, including PSG, Chelsea and both Milan clubs. He won't be in any hurry to make a choice. So "first through the door" doesn't necessarily mean the best.
Personally, I want us to get the very best we can, and I don't care whether he arrives tomorrow or at 5 to midnight as the window is closing. If we get it done, I'll be pleased.
Alan McGuffog
51 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:03:00
51 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:03:00
Mick..
I too despair at seeing O'Brien played out of position.
But "yard dog"... really?
I too despair at seeing O'Brien played out of position.
But "yard dog"... really?
Sean Herbert
52 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:04:07
52 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:04:07
Winston @47, nor did I suggest we are touting players for sale.
If, as you are suggesting, there is no money for a right-back, then shouldn't the recruitment team be looking at sales to give us the cash needed? That's what I suggested.
But let's face it, this isn't purely a TFG problem; it's a problem we have had for far too long. As I suggested in a previous post, maybe we should have been looking to bring in a right-back as our first purchase?
It isn't like the recruitment team were taken by surprise... is it?
If, as you are suggesting, there is no money for a right-back, then shouldn't the recruitment team be looking at sales to give us the cash needed? That's what I suggested.
But let's face it, this isn't purely a TFG problem; it's a problem we have had for far too long. As I suggested in a previous post, maybe we should have been looking to bring in a right-back as our first purchase?
It isn't like the recruitment team were taken by surprise... is it?
John Collins
53 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:06:58
53 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:06:58
Mike @50,
If they are working their way through a list, and Johnston was at the top of that list, we’re in trouble.
If they are working their way through a list, and Johnston was at the top of that list, we’re in trouble.
Dave Lynch
54 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:38:32
54 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:38:32
How the fuck can Leeds out-spend us?
They have just shelled out £40M for a keeper, surely we bring in more profit than them?
What am I missing here with regard to these new spending rules? I'm at a loss with how they work.
They have just shelled out £40M for a keeper, surely we bring in more profit than them?
What am I missing here with regard to these new spending rules? I'm at a loss with how they work.
Eric Myles
55 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:53:32
55 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:53:32
Paul #41,
"Moyesturbation" Love It!!
But do you really think Dyche was going to turn it around? Just 1 point off relegation, 2 goals scored in 10 games with no shots on goal in the other 8 games!!!
By all accounts, Dyche threw the towel in rather than be forever crucified as the manager that relegated Everton.
It would have needed a small miracle... oh, hang on!
"Moyesturbation" Love It!!
But do you really think Dyche was going to turn it around? Just 1 point off relegation, 2 goals scored in 10 games with no shots on goal in the other 8 games!!!
By all accounts, Dyche threw the towel in rather than be forever crucified as the manager that relegated Everton.
It would have needed a small miracle... oh, hang on!
Stu Darlington
56 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:57:14
56 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:57:14
3 years since Seamus broke his leg and we are still waiting for the club to sign a right-back?
Words fail me!
Words fail me!
Eric Myles
57 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:58:41
57 Posted 07/08/2026 at 09:58:41
Winaton #44,
You remind me of that Talking Heads song "Stop Talking Sense" -- you know TWers don't appreciate it.
You remind me of that Talking Heads song "Stop Talking Sense" -- you know TWers don't appreciate it.
Dave Lynch
58 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:01:13
58 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:01:13
It's actually "Stop Making Sense", Eric.
But none of it does with this club, mate.
But none of it does with this club, mate.
Eric Myles
59 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:01:23
59 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:01:23
Sean #52,
Our very first target last summer was a right-back, so I'm sure they know we still need one.
Our very first target last summer was a right-back, so I'm sure they know we still need one.
Eric Myles
60 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:05:32
60 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:05:32
True, David #58.
It's a long time since I heard it but I just brought back their '77 vinyl album from England (which it's not on). Just need a Hi-Fi system to play it on now.
It's a long time since I heard it but I just brought back their '77 vinyl album from England (which it's not on). Just need a Hi-Fi system to play it on now.
Dave Abrahams
61 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:15:59
61 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:15:59
Mike (@43)
Read up on how Robinson finally left Everton: he wasn't dumped at all... he had the option to stay with Everton when other clubs wanted him.
We let him know through Brands that we wanted him to stay but he decided to leave, which he was entitled to do.
Read up on how Robinson finally left Everton: he wasn't dumped at all... he had the option to stay with Everton when other clubs wanted him.
We let him know through Brands that we wanted him to stay but he decided to leave, which he was entitled to do.
David West
62 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:21:54
62 Posted 07/08/2026 at 10:21:54
Think the dilemma is: Why pay £15M for a very average full-back in Johnston, who's not going to take us to any new levels in terms of progressing, when you could make it £20M and get some quality instead?
It might be a case of where you put your money, they may have thought, if they got him for £10-12M, there's money to put elsewhere, and now think put the money on a better option.
I'll judge when the window "slams" shut. Let's hope they are not hanging out of the window at the time!!
It might be a case of where you put your money, they may have thought, if they got him for £10-12M, there's money to put elsewhere, and now think put the money on a better option.
I'll judge when the window "slams" shut. Let's hope they are not hanging out of the window at the time!!
John Williams
63 Posted 07/08/2026 at 11:03:17
63 Posted 07/08/2026 at 11:03:17
Buying players that play in the Scottish Premiership, there is always a risk. It's equivalent to our Championship at best, most Scottish Premiership clubs would be League One.
For whatever reason, Scottish football has dropped a couple of levels over the years. I cannot see this guy being any better than Patterson and sadly I don't rate him, he cannot defend, is poor in the air.
Although getting on, Walker or Trippier would have done a job for Everton.
For whatever reason, Scottish football has dropped a couple of levels over the years. I cannot see this guy being any better than Patterson and sadly I don't rate him, he cannot defend, is poor in the air.
Although getting on, Walker or Trippier would have done a job for Everton.
Ajay Gopal
64 Posted 07/08/2026 at 11:03:43
64 Posted 07/08/2026 at 11:03:43
Winston (@44 & 47), Mike (various), you guys seem to be justifying or giving excuses for the failure of the club to sign a competent right-back. I don't see other clubs (in similar or worse positions than ours) doling out reasons. They just get on with their job.
We may never be able to sign our 'ideal' player but, if SCR rules are constraining, then our recruitment team needs to find solutions.
If with the Norgaard signing, we have reached our spend limit, then why don't we sell the likes of Iroegbunam, McNeil, Alcaraz, Patterson -- who are surplus to requirements -- and with those funds, go out and buy a couple of high-value players -- a right-back and a right winger -- for example?
Or put all that money on the one position that we are desperate for -- ie, right-back? And don't forget that there is always the loan market to fill up positions that we are unable to afford right now -- like we did last season with Grealish and Rohl.
We may never be able to sign our 'ideal' player but, if SCR rules are constraining, then our recruitment team needs to find solutions.
If with the Norgaard signing, we have reached our spend limit, then why don't we sell the likes of Iroegbunam, McNeil, Alcaraz, Patterson -- who are surplus to requirements -- and with those funds, go out and buy a couple of high-value players -- a right-back and a right winger -- for example?
Or put all that money on the one position that we are desperate for -- ie, right-back? And don't forget that there is always the loan market to fill up positions that we are unable to afford right now -- like we did last season with Grealish and Rohl.
Stan Grace
65 Posted 07/08/2026 at 11:10:24
65 Posted 07/08/2026 at 11:10:24
Antonee Robinson (Fulham)
Premier League: 2025-26
Appearances: 22
Starts: 17
Minutes Played: 1,492
Goals:1
Assists: 0
Yellow Cards: 5
Yeah, that goal would have got us into Europe for sure.
Premier League: 2025-26
Appearances: 22
Starts: 17
Minutes Played: 1,492
Goals:1
Assists: 0
Yellow Cards: 5
Yeah, that goal would have got us into Europe for sure.
Jeff Armstrong
66 Posted 07/08/2026 at 11:12:25
66 Posted 07/08/2026 at 11:12:25
It would be great to just sell our peripheral players like Alcaraz, Iroegbunam, Patterson, McNeil etc...
One problem: you need buyers!
One problem: you need buyers!
Winston Williamson
67 Posted 07/08/2026 at 11:40:03
67 Posted 07/08/2026 at 11:40:03
Ajay, not at all. I'm just saying what I believe to be the reason we're not spending fortunes and trying to negotiate every deal.
Transfers, I'd imagine, are a matter of timing. Hackney and Norgaard were available, willing to come, within budget (after negotiations), and it looks like there wasn't a queue of competition for their signature.
I'm in complete agreement and share everyone's frustration about a lack of a right-back. Seeing O'Brien there last season drove me mad.
I'm not trying to make excuses. Just stating that the club is likely trying to identify right-backs who are willing to come to a club who have won nothing for years and have no European football, who are available for sale, within budget for both fee and wages, and who will be of a sufficient level to merit a place in the starting line-up.
We could go all out, throw £40M at a right-back, go outside the new rules and, with our history, take a 6-point deduction for our troubles.
Like Jeff says above, I'd imagine we'd be happy to sell certain players to improve our budgets… but it's down to other clubs wanting them and then the players wanting to make the move.
In an ideal world, we'd sell all the players we don't want... but as we've seen, some of them are pretty shit!
Transfers, I'd imagine, are a matter of timing. Hackney and Norgaard were available, willing to come, within budget (after negotiations), and it looks like there wasn't a queue of competition for their signature.
I'm in complete agreement and share everyone's frustration about a lack of a right-back. Seeing O'Brien there last season drove me mad.
I'm not trying to make excuses. Just stating that the club is likely trying to identify right-backs who are willing to come to a club who have won nothing for years and have no European football, who are available for sale, within budget for both fee and wages, and who will be of a sufficient level to merit a place in the starting line-up.
We could go all out, throw £40M at a right-back, go outside the new rules and, with our history, take a 6-point deduction for our troubles.
Like Jeff says above, I'd imagine we'd be happy to sell certain players to improve our budgets… but it's down to other clubs wanting them and then the players wanting to make the move.
In an ideal world, we'd sell all the players we don't want... but as we've seen, some of them are pretty shit!
Tom Bowers
68 Posted 07/08/2026 at 12:15:17
68 Posted 07/08/2026 at 12:15:17
So frustrating being an Everton fan these days. I've been one for 70 years and realize that I may never see a great team here again after Howard Kendall's great squad of the 1980s.
So many managers since then and so many failures. To cap it all, they bring Moyes back after all his failings at Man Utd, Sunderland and Sociedad.
Yet another Summer of apparent inactivity and apathy by the ownership will convince us that getting into the top echelons of the Premier League table will be very difficult.
There is a nucleus of good talent at the club but failure to address the obvious weaknesses up front is unacceptable.
I, like everyone else, would love to see Beto and/or Barry become regular goal scorers but it seems obvious we have seen the best of them... which is mediocre mostly.
So many managers since then and so many failures. To cap it all, they bring Moyes back after all his failings at Man Utd, Sunderland and Sociedad.
Yet another Summer of apparent inactivity and apathy by the ownership will convince us that getting into the top echelons of the Premier League table will be very difficult.
There is a nucleus of good talent at the club but failure to address the obvious weaknesses up front is unacceptable.
I, like everyone else, would love to see Beto and/or Barry become regular goal scorers but it seems obvious we have seen the best of them... which is mediocre mostly.
Dan Brierley
69 Posted 07/08/2026 at 12:34:57
69 Posted 07/08/2026 at 12:34:57
The amount of air time this right back subject gets seems excessive to me. I know I am in the minority, but I personally like how Moyes tries to develop future players by giving them games out of position.
Jake O'Brien will have got a huge amount of development playing out of position for a whole season rather than sitting on the bench. His overall ball control, fitness and distribution has improved dramatically, even if he won't ever become a right-back.
Overall what did we lose as a team playing Jake instead of Nathan Patterson? Probably very little, Patterson's best season for us was in 2022-23 where he started 14 times, notching up zero assists.
Now looking ahead to this season, I can see we are overstocked in the central midfield, with Garner, Norgaard, Iroegbunam, Armstrong, Dewsbury-Hall, Alcaraz and Hackney all fighting for places. And for all Rohl's qualities, he probably doesn't get in the side ahead of Dewsbury-Hall, Garner and Norgaard or Hackney.
This makes me think Moyes may instead use the open right-back position to accommodate the development of Rohl, rather than throwing transfer budget at overpriced players like Alastair Johnston.
For me personally, I don't want to see Moyes buying any more players as he won't be here beyond his contract. Our next manager will need a pretty heavy rebuild, so will need as much cash as we can get!
Jake O'Brien will have got a huge amount of development playing out of position for a whole season rather than sitting on the bench. His overall ball control, fitness and distribution has improved dramatically, even if he won't ever become a right-back.
Overall what did we lose as a team playing Jake instead of Nathan Patterson? Probably very little, Patterson's best season for us was in 2022-23 where he started 14 times, notching up zero assists.
Now looking ahead to this season, I can see we are overstocked in the central midfield, with Garner, Norgaard, Iroegbunam, Armstrong, Dewsbury-Hall, Alcaraz and Hackney all fighting for places. And for all Rohl's qualities, he probably doesn't get in the side ahead of Dewsbury-Hall, Garner and Norgaard or Hackney.
This makes me think Moyes may instead use the open right-back position to accommodate the development of Rohl, rather than throwing transfer budget at overpriced players like Alastair Johnston.
For me personally, I don't want to see Moyes buying any more players as he won't be here beyond his contract. Our next manager will need a pretty heavy rebuild, so will need as much cash as we can get!
Darren Hind
70 Posted 07/08/2026 at 13:45:38
70 Posted 07/08/2026 at 13:45:38
Moyes talking about the signing of Seamus Coleman:
"I have to say, I get the praise for it, but I have to praise the recruitment team at the time. They spotted him in Ireland, brought him over and forced me into doing it."
Seems Moyes is having to come clean about signings he has spent years taking the credit for. Perhaps he didn't want to be called out again. Turns out he had seen about as much of Seamus as he had seen of John Stones.
He does not seem to sign full backs. We all know about him having to have his arm twisted up his back to sign Baines.
"I have to say, I get the praise for it, but I have to praise the recruitment team at the time. They spotted him in Ireland, brought him over and forced me into doing it."
Seems Moyes is having to come clean about signings he has spent years taking the credit for. Perhaps he didn't want to be called out again. Turns out he had seen about as much of Seamus as he had seen of John Stones.
He does not seem to sign full backs. We all know about him having to have his arm twisted up his back to sign Baines.
Mark Murphy
71 Posted 07/08/2026 at 14:18:12
71 Posted 07/08/2026 at 14:18:12
Jeff, we also need a squad.
Michael Kenrick
72 Posted 07/08/2026 at 14:28:40
72 Posted 07/08/2026 at 14:28:40
When you say "3 years since Seamus broke his leg". you do realise it's more like 9½ years?
24 March 2017: Coleman suffers awful leg fracture in Wales clash
I think there were a few who stood in for him until he recovered to come back with that great performance in January 2018 against the then Champions, mighty Leicester City.
24 March 2017: Coleman suffers awful leg fracture in Wales clash
I think there were a few who stood in for him until he recovered to come back with that great performance in January 2018 against the then Champions, mighty Leicester City.
Tony Hughes
74 Posted 07/08/2026 at 14:52:55
74 Posted 07/08/2026 at 14:52:55
A right-back is an absolute must but, surely to fuck, we're not going to start the season with the Beto - Barry clusterfuck up front, are we?
Eric Myles
75 Posted 07/08/2026 at 16:13:34
75 Posted 07/08/2026 at 16:13:34
Tom #68,
You forgot his more recent failings at West Ham.
Oh, hang on... didn't he win a European trophy with them?
You forgot his more recent failings at West Ham.
Oh, hang on... didn't he win a European trophy with them?
Eric Myles
76 Posted 07/08/2026 at 16:19:13
76 Posted 07/08/2026 at 16:19:13
Darren #70, isn't it the scouts' job to go out and find players and recommend them? I'm sure it should be in the job description.
The story I read was that one of our scouts saw Coleman playing for Sligo when he went to watch his son play for the opposition. He liked what he saw and recommended him.
Having had a trial at Celtic, Moyes called up his mate Ally McCoist and asked about Coleman and was given a good report. That's called due diligence.
The story I read was that one of our scouts saw Coleman playing for Sligo when he went to watch his son play for the opposition. He liked what he saw and recommended him.
Having had a trial at Celtic, Moyes called up his mate Ally McCoist and asked about Coleman and was given a good report. That's called due diligence.
Mark Taylor
77 Posted 07/08/2026 at 16:56:08
77 Posted 07/08/2026 at 16:56:08
It's all very well saying Hackney and Norgaard were willing to come and we're 'in budget' but they don't play in the area of the pitch we have literally no-one.
It's a matter of priority. Fill the hole that needs filling most (left-back would be my next biggest priority; we will always play crap without decent full-backs).
I think all three of Hackney, Rohl and Norgaard are potentially decent players but midfield is well stocked relatively speaking. If they are using up the budget and all we can bid for is a Patterson re-run, then that says bad planning.
It's a matter of priority. Fill the hole that needs filling most (left-back would be my next biggest priority; we will always play crap without decent full-backs).
I think all three of Hackney, Rohl and Norgaard are potentially decent players but midfield is well stocked relatively speaking. If they are using up the budget and all we can bid for is a Patterson re-run, then that says bad planning.
Christy Ring
78 Posted 07/08/2026 at 17:13:33
78 Posted 07/08/2026 at 17:13:33
Weren't West Ham looking at McNeil?
What about offering him in part-exchange for Wan-Bissaka, as they bought a right-back from Brighton yesterday?
What about offering him in part-exchange for Wan-Bissaka, as they bought a right-back from Brighton yesterday?
Mike Gaynes
79 Posted 07/08/2026 at 17:19:15
79 Posted 07/08/2026 at 17:19:15
John #53, I'll disagree with you on both counts. I'm sure Johnston is nowhere near the top of our list -- I speculated that he'd be an ideal backup for a top-drawer right-back, for Cup ties etc. -- but we would never be in "trouble" with him.
He's a solid professional with an attacking mindset and a warrior's attitude that our fan base would love. He may not move the needle much, but he'd be good enough to allow O'Brien to move to the middle, and that's top priority.
But I do think we'll do better. A Hammers Facebook page reports us back in for Wan-Bissaka.
Dave #61, £2M for an established international left back who never saw the pitch for Everton is a dump, no matter how you slice it.
He's a solid professional with an attacking mindset and a warrior's attitude that our fan base would love. He may not move the needle much, but he'd be good enough to allow O'Brien to move to the middle, and that's top priority.
But I do think we'll do better. A Hammers Facebook page reports us back in for Wan-Bissaka.
Dave #61, £2M for an established international left back who never saw the pitch for Everton is a dump, no matter how you slice it.
Jeff Armstrong
80 Posted 07/08/2026 at 17:24:27
80 Posted 07/08/2026 at 17:24:27
Christy #78,
It was Crystal Palace.
It was Crystal Palace.
Christy Ring
81 Posted 07/08/2026 at 17:54:23
81 Posted 07/08/2026 at 17:54:23
Jeff #80,
I know what happened with Palace in the last window, but West Ham were mentioned earlier in this window.
I know what happened with Palace in the last window, but West Ham were mentioned earlier in this window.
Peter Gorman
82 Posted 07/08/2026 at 18:15:46
82 Posted 07/08/2026 at 18:15:46
Darren @70,
Maybe that's just Moyes being magnanimous and giving credit to those that brought the player to his attention. Unlikely anybody forced him to do anything.
It's a throwaway comment about as insightful as a Hollywood starlet thanking God and their PR team. Just good manners.
Maybe that's just Moyes being magnanimous and giving credit to those that brought the player to his attention. Unlikely anybody forced him to do anything.
It's a throwaway comment about as insightful as a Hollywood starlet thanking God and their PR team. Just good manners.
Kevin Molloy
83 Posted 07/08/2026 at 18:48:27
83 Posted 07/08/2026 at 18:48:27
Darren,
Moyes rightly takes the praise for Coleman, cos he signed it off.
It's on him if it went wrong so he gets the credit for when it goes well.
Moyes rightly takes the praise for Coleman, cos he signed it off.
It's on him if it went wrong so he gets the credit for when it goes well.
Darren Hind
84 Posted 07/08/2026 at 19:07:56
84 Posted 07/08/2026 at 19:07:56
Lets make this very clear. Moyes by his own admission had never seen Seamus play.
We've been made aware that Moyes has taken credit for signing players when he's only really agreed to take them when a gun was put to his head. We know of his public humiliation when he tried to boast about the John Stones deal and the Barnsley chairman cut him down.
Anybody prepared to watch the interview will now know he even thought we were taking too much of a chance on Seamus and wanted to pay even less than £60k.
I know Moyes likes to play as many centre-backs as he can, but I wonder if he has ever signed an out-and-out full-back in his life -- off his own bat? That could explain our ridiculous ongoing situation.
We've been made aware that Moyes has taken credit for signing players when he's only really agreed to take them when a gun was put to his head. We know of his public humiliation when he tried to boast about the John Stones deal and the Barnsley chairman cut him down.
Anybody prepared to watch the interview will now know he even thought we were taking too much of a chance on Seamus and wanted to pay even less than £60k.
I know Moyes likes to play as many centre-backs as he can, but I wonder if he has ever signed an out-and-out full-back in his life -- off his own bat? That could explain our ridiculous ongoing situation.
Phil Roberts
85 Posted 07/08/2026 at 19:09:27
85 Posted 07/08/2026 at 19:09:27
Mike #43 & Sean #46 - it was NOT stupid dumping Robinson. It was the most sensible decision when he left on 7/15/19 (in your Mike's money) at the age of almost 22.
By that time, he had been behind Leighton Baines and then Lucas Digne, having been out on loan to Bolton and Wigan.
Do you suggest he should have replaced either of them?
Aged 21, with a year in the Championship behind him, we should have brought him back from Bolton and not bought a French international left-back who was playing for Barcelona?
Please let me know if Dixon or Onyango are going to be signed by Man Utd in close season 2033 because that is the same timeframe since we let Robinson go.
Mike, just because he is American, don't let that cloud your judgement.
By that time, he had been behind Leighton Baines and then Lucas Digne, having been out on loan to Bolton and Wigan.
Do you suggest he should have replaced either of them?
Aged 21, with a year in the Championship behind him, we should have brought him back from Bolton and not bought a French international left-back who was playing for Barcelona?
Please let me know if Dixon or Onyango are going to be signed by Man Utd in close season 2033 because that is the same timeframe since we let Robinson go.
Mike, just because he is American, don't let that cloud your judgement.
Dave Abrahams
86 Posted 07/08/2026 at 19:11:52
86 Posted 07/08/2026 at 19:11:52
Mike (79),
I asked you to read about his situation, I'm not slicing anything up. Everton were selling him to Milan, I think, for £9M, which is a lot more than £2M, especially for a player who played little if any first-team football.
But he was found to have a dodgy ticker which was corrected afterwards. When he was declared fit, he then went on loan to various clubs before being sold to Wigan, with the proviso that Everton would be told if any club was interested in signing him, we would have the option to compete with them,
When Brands, who made that deal, went to see Robinson, Brands assured him that they had kept their eyes on him and wanted him back... but Antonee decided his future lay elsewhere.
I asked you to read about his situation, I'm not slicing anything up. Everton were selling him to Milan, I think, for £9M, which is a lot more than £2M, especially for a player who played little if any first-team football.
But he was found to have a dodgy ticker which was corrected afterwards. When he was declared fit, he then went on loan to various clubs before being sold to Wigan, with the proviso that Everton would be told if any club was interested in signing him, we would have the option to compete with them,
When Brands, who made that deal, went to see Robinson, Brands assured him that they had kept their eyes on him and wanted him back... but Antonee decided his future lay elsewhere.
Phil Roberts
87 Posted 07/08/2026 at 19:27:52
87 Posted 07/08/2026 at 19:27:52
Dave,
Everton were not selling him to Milan; it was Wigan where he had moved after turning down another contract from Everton.
Right about his heart complaint, which is why the Milan move fell through. Wigan then sold him to Fulham for £2M when they were relegated to League 1, Robinson having played a season in the Championship.
Yes, he was a USMNT player -- but he was always going to be behind the likes of Baines and Digne, so never going to play for Everton.
Perhaps we should have tried harder to tell him to wait around until he was in his mid-20s, and maybe we will sell Digne and he will be first choice? I am sure he would have stayed if only we had tried harder.
Everton were not selling him to Milan; it was Wigan where he had moved after turning down another contract from Everton.
Right about his heart complaint, which is why the Milan move fell through. Wigan then sold him to Fulham for £2M when they were relegated to League 1, Robinson having played a season in the Championship.
Yes, he was a USMNT player -- but he was always going to be behind the likes of Baines and Digne, so never going to play for Everton.
Perhaps we should have tried harder to tell him to wait around until he was in his mid-20s, and maybe we will sell Digne and he will be first choice? I am sure he would have stayed if only we had tried harder.
Ian Bennett
89 Posted 07/08/2026 at 19:32:34
89 Posted 07/08/2026 at 19:32:34
A lot of noise coming from the Celtic side, which to me implies they're keen to cash in on a player who is 28 in October, has no Top 5 league experience, and with no likely resale value -- and who will cost around £8M a year plus in wages and amortisation on a 3-year deal.
Chris Sutton demanding £25M is laughable.
This distinctly looks like an outlier to previous deals under TFG. They've mainly been under 24 with years ahead of them in service and resale value, or are Premier League ready now and are proven at that level.
We clearly need a right-back or two to solve the issue. I question signing a lad who will be 28, and who may take a year to settle in, and may struggle to cope with the physical demand of a hard league.
If he is picking up injuries in Scotland, good luck playing a really physically demanding position in the Premier League.
Chris Sutton demanding £25M is laughable.
This distinctly looks like an outlier to previous deals under TFG. They've mainly been under 24 with years ahead of them in service and resale value, or are Premier League ready now and are proven at that level.
We clearly need a right-back or two to solve the issue. I question signing a lad who will be 28, and who may take a year to settle in, and may struggle to cope with the physical demand of a hard league.
If he is picking up injuries in Scotland, good luck playing a really physically demanding position in the Premier League.
Mike Gaynes
90 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:06:45
90 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:06:45
Phil, my judgement of Robinson was based not on him being American (he was actually born in Milton Keynes and raised in England) but on having seen the lad play a half-dozen times for the USA and seeing brilliance in him. Had you?
I could well understand why he would want away after Digne was purchased, and good on Everton for giving him his wish. But I thought £2M was absolutely insane at the time, and I still consider it the dumbest sale we've made in this century. I thought the £9M Wigan agreed a year later from Milan, the deal that was cancelled when his heart issue was discovered, was much closer to his proper value.
Dave #86, Phil already corrected your timeline on Robinson, so no need for further discussion on that, but I was going to ask you if you'd ever seen him play? He was Players' Player of the Season for our U18s, and I know you follow the youth teams.
Seeing him with the USA and once for Bolton, I thought the kid was an electric talent. And so he turned out to be. Ironic that he and Digne both wound up playing in the same World Cup.
I could well understand why he would want away after Digne was purchased, and good on Everton for giving him his wish. But I thought £2M was absolutely insane at the time, and I still consider it the dumbest sale we've made in this century. I thought the £9M Wigan agreed a year later from Milan, the deal that was cancelled when his heart issue was discovered, was much closer to his proper value.
Dave #86, Phil already corrected your timeline on Robinson, so no need for further discussion on that, but I was going to ask you if you'd ever seen him play? He was Players' Player of the Season for our U18s, and I know you follow the youth teams.
Seeing him with the USA and once for Bolton, I thought the kid was an electric talent. And so he turned out to be. Ironic that he and Digne both wound up playing in the same World Cup.
Oliver Molloy
91 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:07:54
91 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:07:54
John @6,
"You have to understand that Celtic and Rangers buy players for nowt but want top dollar selling them on. They have this old-fashioned idea that they can get anyone for nothing because they're Celtic and Rangers. Look at their net spend."
Not totally true. I would think what you say applies to us also and many more -- name of the game, John.
What do you think Everton would ask for Mykolenko? -- less than the rumoured £17M paid for him?
Alcaraz? Iroegbunam? McNeil? ... Dibling??? Guaranteed we would be looking for a profit or close to what we paid. (And there are others!)
"You have to understand that Celtic and Rangers buy players for nowt but want top dollar selling them on. They have this old-fashioned idea that they can get anyone for nothing because they're Celtic and Rangers. Look at their net spend."
Not totally true. I would think what you say applies to us also and many more -- name of the game, John.
What do you think Everton would ask for Mykolenko? -- less than the rumoured £17M paid for him?
Alcaraz? Iroegbunam? McNeil? ... Dibling??? Guaranteed we would be looking for a profit or close to what we paid. (And there are others!)
Christy Ring
92 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:41:50
92 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:41:50
Mike #92.
Hoping it's true, he's the best option in my opinion.
Hoping it's true, he's the best option in my opinion.
Dale Self
93 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:44:15
93 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:44:15
All this quoting from books to make an argument, is that fair?
Seems like the Yanks on this site will be severely disadvantaged by such.
Seems like the Yanks on this site will be severely disadvantaged by such.
Oliver Molloy
94 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:46:25
94 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:46:25
Coleman -- £60 grand!!
However, we nearly missed out due to the dilly-dallying Everton and Moyes are known well for... Birmingham, Ipswich and Celtic (who had already trialled him) came back in for him.
Word in Killybegs was that Coleman and his dad wanted Celtic, but McStay advised him Everton were the better bet! (He probably got a few quid...)
Anyway, the rest is history...
However, we nearly missed out due to the dilly-dallying Everton and Moyes are known well for... Birmingham, Ipswich and Celtic (who had already trialled him) came back in for him.
Word in Killybegs was that Coleman and his dad wanted Celtic, but McStay advised him Everton were the better bet! (He probably got a few quid...)
Anyway, the rest is history...
Brendan McLaughlin
95 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:57:58
95 Posted 07/08/2026 at 20:57:58
Darren #84,
The transfer of Seamus Coleman to Everton was and remains a wonderful good news story and full credit to everyone at Everton at the time who played a part in it.
There are certainly plenty of sticks with which to beat Moyes. This isn't one of them.
The transfer of Seamus Coleman to Everton was and remains a wonderful good news story and full credit to everyone at Everton at the time who played a part in it.
There are certainly plenty of sticks with which to beat Moyes. This isn't one of them.
Dave Abrahams
96 Posted 07/08/2026 at 21:20:59
96 Posted 07/08/2026 at 21:20:59
Mike (90),
Phil stated that he was going to Milan but the deal fell through because of the heart complaint and Wigan sold him for £2M to Fulham a couple of years later so his value hadn't increased even though I presume he had played a lot more games for the USA.
Yes, I saw Antonee a few times either live or on Everton's TV, when it worked and I thought then he was pretty good going forward but not very good defensively; although that was a good few years ago, I still think the same of him.
An electric talent? Give you your due Mike you'd make a good salesman.
Phil stated that he was going to Milan but the deal fell through because of the heart complaint and Wigan sold him for £2M to Fulham a couple of years later so his value hadn't increased even though I presume he had played a lot more games for the USA.
Yes, I saw Antonee a few times either live or on Everton's TV, when it worked and I thought then he was pretty good going forward but not very good defensively; although that was a good few years ago, I still think the same of him.
An electric talent? Give you your due Mike you'd make a good salesman.
Mike Gaynes
97 Posted 07/08/2026 at 23:21:57
97 Posted 07/08/2026 at 23:21:57
Dave, it was Wigan, not Everton, that had a £9M bid in hand from Milan before he failed his physical at the deadline. So his value had gone up by more than 4 times. Obviously it fell back because of the problem.
Antonee was 2024 US Player of the Year and was superior defensively in the World Cup. I consider him one of the 20 best left-backs in the world at this point, and Man Utd is reportedly preparing a bid, so I'll stand by my long-ago assessment that he was electric, and he still is.
Antonee was 2024 US Player of the Year and was superior defensively in the World Cup. I consider him one of the 20 best left-backs in the world at this point, and Man Utd is reportedly preparing a bid, so I'll stand by my long-ago assessment that he was electric, and he still is.
Mike Gaynes
98 Posted 08/08/2026 at 01:19:07
98 Posted 08/08/2026 at 01:19:07
Hard to imagine Dwight even considering Palace after the despicable way they screwed him over in January.
And I think his fiancee would break up with him.
And I think his fiancee would break up with him.
Eric Myles
99 Posted 08/08/2026 at 01:41:28
99 Posted 08/08/2026 at 01:41:28
Oliver #97, Celtic weren't in for Coleman.
Allie McCoist told Moyes he likes Coleman and wants him but can't sign him and recommended Moyes sign him.
And of course he'd recommend Everton over Birmingham and Ipswich every day of the week!
Allie McCoist told Moyes he likes Coleman and wants him but can't sign him and recommended Moyes sign him.
And of course he'd recommend Everton over Birmingham and Ipswich every day of the week!
Ashley Roberts
100 Posted 08/08/2026 at 02:42:49
100 Posted 08/08/2026 at 02:42:49
Is this boy Johnston that much better than Patterson?
Patterson played in the World Cup, just like Johnston. We need a big step up from Patterson; otherwise, just forget it.
For me, I don't think Johnston or Wan-Bissaka cut it. That is why no deal has been completed.
Patterson played in the World Cup, just like Johnston. We need a big step up from Patterson; otherwise, just forget it.
For me, I don't think Johnston or Wan-Bissaka cut it. That is why no deal has been completed.
Bill Hawker
101 Posted 08/08/2026 at 05:18:12
101 Posted 08/08/2026 at 05:18:12
Phil #85,
I'm American and my judgement isn't clouded.
Antonee Robinson would absolutely walk right into this team today, no question about it. Too bad we don't have a shot at him.
I'm American and my judgement isn't clouded.
Antonee Robinson would absolutely walk right into this team today, no question about it. Too bad we don't have a shot at him.
Mike Gaynes
102 Posted 08/08/2026 at 05:32:41
102 Posted 08/08/2026 at 05:32:41
Ashley #106...
Yes.
He is that much better than Patterson.
Also, Patterson did not play in the World Cup "just like Johnston." He played parts of three games for the team that finished 36th. Johnston played every minute for the team that finished 14th.
If you actually saw them both play, you saw a massive gulf in quality between the two.
Yes.
He is that much better than Patterson.
Also, Patterson did not play in the World Cup "just like Johnston." He played parts of three games for the team that finished 36th. Johnston played every minute for the team that finished 14th.
If you actually saw them both play, you saw a massive gulf in quality between the two.
Peter Gorman
103 Posted 08/08/2026 at 06:43:49
103 Posted 08/08/2026 at 06:43:49
Mike G @102,
"I consider him one of the 20 best left-backs in the world at this point"
Typical hyperbole from you, Mr Gaynes...
He's actually considered the 21st best left-back in the world, according to Sports Illustrated.
Link
"I consider him one of the 20 best left-backs in the world at this point"
Typical hyperbole from you, Mr Gaynes...
He's actually considered the 21st best left-back in the world, according to Sports Illustrated.
Link
Steve Brown
104 Posted 08/08/2026 at 07:28:13
104 Posted 08/08/2026 at 07:28:13
If the club had prioritised Alistair Johnston this summer, he would be signed and training wth the club in Germany. No other Premier League club has an interest in him, and he is not in great demand.
That doesn't mean we won't sign him, but he is down the list of players drawn up by the recruitment team for the position. The fact that we haven't bid may mean there is progress elsewhere.
That doesn't mean we won't sign him, but he is down the list of players drawn up by the recruitment team for the position. The fact that we haven't bid may mean there is progress elsewhere.
Darren Hind
105 Posted 08/08/2026 at 08:06:19
105 Posted 08/08/2026 at 08:06:19
I used to see Robinson quite regularly as a kid. I lived in Milton Keynes at the time. He was head and shoulders above all the other kids (Not that hard in MK). His arl fella was a US ex-serviceman.
He was more like and olympic sprinter than a footballer. His athleticism was what made him stand out, not his ball skills.
I remember outrage from one particular poster on here when he was allowed to go for a nominal fee, but that was more down to his nationality than his ability. Nobody else batted an eyelid.
Robinson was a bit of an ugly duckling, but he has studied the game and has been coached well (Silva?). He now knows his pace won't rescue every situation. Especially against people who are just as fast as him.
With maturity, he has also acquired that most elusive quality people with that kind of pace often never find: composure.
He has turned into a very fine swan indeed. Not sure that would have happened if he had stayed around here to play for the steady stream of anti-football managers we have had to endure...
He was more like and olympic sprinter than a footballer. His athleticism was what made him stand out, not his ball skills.
I remember outrage from one particular poster on here when he was allowed to go for a nominal fee, but that was more down to his nationality than his ability. Nobody else batted an eyelid.
Robinson was a bit of an ugly duckling, but he has studied the game and has been coached well (Silva?). He now knows his pace won't rescue every situation. Especially against people who are just as fast as him.
With maturity, he has also acquired that most elusive quality people with that kind of pace often never find: composure.
He has turned into a very fine swan indeed. Not sure that would have happened if he had stayed around here to play for the steady stream of anti-football managers we have had to endure...
Steve Brown
106 Posted 08/08/2026 at 08:49:24
106 Posted 08/08/2026 at 08:49:24
Darren,
Robinson also had Baines and Digne in front of him for the left-back spot. He wasn't (and still isn't) as good as them.
Robinson also had Baines and Digne in front of him for the left-back spot. He wasn't (and still isn't) as good as them.
Paul Griffiths
107 Posted 08/08/2026 at 08:59:23
107 Posted 08/08/2026 at 08:59:23
Nice post, Darren @112 -- really nice tone and knowledge. You capture Robinson perfectly in my mind at any rate.
You, in Milton Keynes! I can't imagine it. Building roundabouts?
You, in Milton Keynes! I can't imagine it. Building roundabouts?
Ian Bennett
108 Posted 08/08/2026 at 09:13:50
108 Posted 08/08/2026 at 09:13:50
I suspect, even if he had stayed, he would have been sold off to elevate the Moshiri financial meltdown.
Clean PSR profit and all that.
Clean PSR profit and all that.
Dave Abrahams
109 Posted 08/08/2026 at 09:17:56
109 Posted 08/08/2026 at 09:17:56
Mike (102),
My initial posts started when you said Everton had dumped Robinson out of the club and I pointed out that was definitively not the case with him sent out on loan, then sold to Wigan, at the same time covering themselves with the clause that left them in a position to sign him in the future.
Brands went to see him before he signed for Fulham and assured him Everton had kept an eye him since he left the club and he was wanted by the club, so that is far away from dumping him.
As for his ability, that is a matter of opinion whether he is good, bad, or indifferent for each of us.
My initial posts started when you said Everton had dumped Robinson out of the club and I pointed out that was definitively not the case with him sent out on loan, then sold to Wigan, at the same time covering themselves with the clause that left them in a position to sign him in the future.
Brands went to see him before he signed for Fulham and assured him Everton had kept an eye him since he left the club and he was wanted by the club, so that is far away from dumping him.
As for his ability, that is a matter of opinion whether he is good, bad, or indifferent for each of us.
Tommy Carter
110 Posted 08/08/2026 at 10:23:47
110 Posted 08/08/2026 at 10:23:47
I'm happy that Robinson wasn't a missed opportunity.
He wasn't at that time better than Lucas Digne and nor is he better than him now. Robinson is 29 now. What we should've done is not sold Lucas Digne and then used that money to buy Mykolenko and Patterson. Which is what happened under Benitez.
It made sense to move him on and with a clause. Which is what happened. I imagine at that time they probably thought -- in 18 months time, if he's a world beater, we can sign him back and sell Lucas Digne for big money.
That never happened because he wasn't a world beater. He was a decent player that has probably only matured in the last 18 months -- 4 years after leaving.
He wasn't at that time better than Lucas Digne and nor is he better than him now. Robinson is 29 now. What we should've done is not sold Lucas Digne and then used that money to buy Mykolenko and Patterson. Which is what happened under Benitez.
It made sense to move him on and with a clause. Which is what happened. I imagine at that time they probably thought -- in 18 months time, if he's a world beater, we can sign him back and sell Lucas Digne for big money.
That never happened because he wasn't a world beater. He was a decent player that has probably only matured in the last 18 months -- 4 years after leaving.
Michael Kenrick
111 Posted 08/08/2026 at 10:51:22
111 Posted 08/08/2026 at 10:51:22
It is quite amusing reading the differing takes on the 'electric' Antonee Robinson -- stand well clear! -- and how we perhaps should have kept him.
Most contributions seem to reflect the story of his Everton life as I had it cobbled together in his ToffeeWeb Player Profile: Antonee Robinson
But just to address one erroneous perception -- that he left 4 years ago -- I think he's been gone from this parish a wee bit longer than that, Tommy. Try 7 years.
Most contributions seem to reflect the story of his Everton life as I had it cobbled together in his ToffeeWeb Player Profile: Antonee Robinson
But just to address one erroneous perception -- that he left 4 years ago -- I think he's been gone from this parish a wee bit longer than that, Tommy. Try 7 years.
Tommy Carter
112 Posted 08/08/2026 at 11:07:19
112 Posted 08/08/2026 at 11:07:19
@ Michael
Please read my comments before you check me.
I said he’s only matured in the last 18 months. Meaning he matured around 18 months ago - around 4 years after he left.
It’s actually 5 years after he left so apologies for being one year out. My point remains - a player that hasn’t shown to be a player that would massively improve us until about 18 months ago. And that’s given the hundreds of games and trajectory, relegation set backs etc that he has under his belt.
Please read my comments before you check me.
I said he’s only matured in the last 18 months. Meaning he matured around 18 months ago - around 4 years after he left.
It’s actually 5 years after he left so apologies for being one year out. My point remains - a player that hasn’t shown to be a player that would massively improve us until about 18 months ago. And that’s given the hundreds of games and trajectory, relegation set backs etc that he has under his belt.
Andrew McLawrence
113 Posted 08/08/2026 at 11:22:04
113 Posted 08/08/2026 at 11:22:04
I think that, while we rightly criticise our recruitment, it's equally valid to accept that not many players want to come here.
Phil Roberts
114 Posted 08/08/2026 at 15:23:17
114 Posted 08/08/2026 at 15:23:17
Bill #101 - is that because he is 29 and, as all on here say, Moyes doesn't like young players like Anzou?
Mal van Schaick
115 Posted 09/08/2026 at 11:52:03
115 Posted 09/08/2026 at 11:52:03
Can the Director of Football, if we have one, and the owners please publicise their transfer policy showing in which areas we are strengthening and who is leaving?
Because the rumours that we are hearing and transfer intentions have no strategy whatsoever, and that will not lead to any improvement in our forthcoming season or our Premier League position.
Because the rumours that we are hearing and transfer intentions have no strategy whatsoever, and that will not lead to any improvement in our forthcoming season or our Premier League position.
Michael Kenrick
116 Posted 09/08/2026 at 12:13:29
116 Posted 09/08/2026 at 12:13:29
Er, Mal...
I don't know if you've ever noticed this but, in my humble and modest experience, football clubs never ever publicise their transfer policy or talk in advance about which areas they are strengthening and who is leaving (long after the annual departures have been announced).
The last thing they are going to reveal is a transfer strategy. Most of the rumours are generated by agents and journos who claim friends and contacts in high places for their material that goes into clickbait stories, elevating to stories in the established media usually only if they can 'confirm' that there might be some truth behind them.
Then there's the problem last year that for, some reason, some players didn't want to come and play under Moyes. Well, no, they didn't exactly say that... but they turned Everton down all the same.
So I'm afraid you're just going to have to sit on your hands and wait to see who we actually sign and who actually leaves. There is no shortcut.
I don't know if you've ever noticed this but, in my humble and modest experience, football clubs never ever publicise their transfer policy or talk in advance about which areas they are strengthening and who is leaving (long after the annual departures have been announced).
The last thing they are going to reveal is a transfer strategy. Most of the rumours are generated by agents and journos who claim friends and contacts in high places for their material that goes into clickbait stories, elevating to stories in the established media usually only if they can 'confirm' that there might be some truth behind them.
Then there's the problem last year that for, some reason, some players didn't want to come and play under Moyes. Well, no, they didn't exactly say that... but they turned Everton down all the same.
So I'm afraid you're just going to have to sit on your hands and wait to see who we actually sign and who actually leaves. There is no shortcut.
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1 Posted 05/08/2026 at 21:39:35
Nothing is straightforward with our recruitment team!