Everton's transfer inactivity could finally make sense

The next fortnight looms as a big one for Everton. With the transfer deadline fast approaching, time is running out to put the final pieces of the puzzle together.​

Throughout the summer, fans have expressed repeated frustration that priority positions remain unresolved. A right-back, as repetitive as it is, remains a glaring hole in this squad, and the shedload of silly-season murmurings are yet to turn into an answer.

​As the clock ticks down to the transfer deadline on September 1st, could Everton be deliberately waiting to see how the dominoes fall?

Everton's lack of activity in the loan market could be about to make sense.

The Toffees are yet to utilise the loan market this summer. Last season saw Jack Grealish, Merlin Rohl and, in January, Tyrique George all arrive on temporary deals, as David Moyes fleshed out his squad with loanees.

​Several of the names linked heavily with Everton this summer appear viable loan targets in the latter stages of the window. Liam Delap continues to be touted as an option for the Blues, with Chelsea keen to offload the 23-year-old after a difficult debut season.

​Reports of a £40m price tag look, to put it politely, optimistic for a player who scored twice in 41 appearances last season. With no European football and Danny Welbeck arriving from Brighton, Chelsea look unlikely to keep Delap around beyond the deadline. A loan exit, potentially with an option to buy, could become increasingly likely. Everton may find themselves in the mix on those terms after interest last summer.

​Likewise, Ben White is another who could find himself surplus to requirements closer to the transfer window’s end. Mikel Arteta’s interest in signing a player who can cover right-back and centre-back could push White further down the pecking order, having already lost his place as an automatic starter at Arsenal to Jurrien Timber. Both Ezri Konsa and Jarell Quansah have emerged as Arsenal targets, arrivals that could push White through the Emirates exit door. 

For all the talk around Daniel Muñoz and others, White fits a profile that Moyes has often preferred at full-back. He would provide an extra aerial presence, while offering far more comfort and threat in possession than Jake O’Brien.

If both players are of genuine interest to David Moyes, and there’s reason to suggest they are, Everton’s apparent inactivity may have some method behind it.

​As the window ticks towards its end, opportunities will arise. Everton must ensure the club are well placed to take them. If Everton are indeed waiting, the next two weeks will reveal whether it was patience or procrastination.

 

 

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