Everton’s Transfer Strategy and Injury Woes Ahead of January Window

omidbasir- Everton invested approximately €130 million (£113 million) on player transfers during the summer, including notable acquisitions such as Tyler Dibling and Thierno Barry. Unfortunately, these new signings have yet to make a significant impact, compounded by injuries to key players Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Jarrad Branthwaite. Additionally, Idrissa Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye are currently participating in the Africa Cup of Nations. In light of this situation, manager David Moyes does not anticipate a busy January transfer window.

Ahead of their recent goalless draw against Burnley, Moyes stated, “Throughout all my press conferences, I have consistently indicated that I do not expect us to engage in extensive business come January. If we identify suitable players, we would be pleased to pursue those opportunities, and our CEO and ownership would support such initiatives. However, our focus is more on strategic planning as directed by ownership, rather than seeking quick fixes. Such is the evolving landscape at Everton at present.”

According to The I Paper, Everton is exploring loan options for January, showing interest in Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and forward Joshua Zirkzee. However, negotiations for either player could prove to be ‘complex and expensive,’ with the Red Devils still undecided about potential departures. Furthermore, Jack Grealish’s decision to join Everton on loan could significantly enhance the club’s profile in attracting high-caliber players in the future.

A source mentioned, “Grealish has been instrumental in opening doors for Everton, and it is plausible that more players will follow suit. Our strategy has always involved a multi-window approach to achieve our goals. We are prepared to act if a suitable opportunity arises, but we will not invest indiscriminately.”

Reports indicate that Grealish is eager to convert his loan at Everton into a permanent transfer by 2026, following a decline in playing time at Manchester City.

While Mainoo has struggled to secure playing time at United this season, leading to speculation about his future, head coach Ruben Amorim views the 20-year-old as vital to the club’s future. He commented, “Kobbie Mainoo will receive his chance; he possesses the versatility to play in various positions. He is destined to be a key player for Manchester United. He must remain patient, as fortunes can change swiftly in football.”

Conversely, Zirkzee has been rumored to be considering a return to Serie A. However, Amorim emphasized that United is currently ‘short’ on numbers, making January exits unlikely. He remarked, “It will be challenging for any player to leave if we cannot secure a replacement. We are operating with a reduced squad, and with the club’s significant responsibilities, we must strive to win every match without making excuses.”

Both Everton and Manchester United aspire to conclude 2025 positively, with Everton facing Nottingham Forest and United hosting Wolves, who are at the bottom of the Premier League table, on the same night.