Transfer strategy: how the club can attract European-level players


Reporter Giulia Bould answered questions about Everton in a special Q&A session for BBC Radio Merseyside. In the first half, she looked at what the club intends to do differently this transfer window and whether the Toffees are moving more slowly compared to other clubs. Barry asked: "If we need new players to get into European football but we can't attract them because we don't have that competition, what will the club do differently?" Giulia commented: "It seems a bit like a vicious cycle, doesn't it?" Ending the season without winning the last seven games and losing the chance to compete in Europe was a hard blow. However, it is important to consider that Everton were without Jarrad Branthwaite for most of the season and Jack Grealish, who played a fundamental role in the team's good form, was out from January onwards. Grealish remains a strong option for manager David Moyes this season and could even extend his stay. The coach is working on the World Cup in a media role but also uses it as an observation opportunity. Some Championship players are also being analyzed. Possibly the most famous to rise through the ranks under Moyes was Tim Cahill, who joined from Millwall and made 278 appearances, scoring 68 goals. Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney remains a target this summer as the Everton board believe he has the potential to perform at a higher level. Greg asked: "When are we going to start signing players early? Other clubs seem to be doing this, but we, as always, are slow." Giulia responded: "Right now, business is slow across the league. The World Cup will have an impact early in the window as clubs assess who is available and whether their own players in the tournament will return injury-free or be targeted by other teams. Given that Grealish remains at Finch Farm for his rehabilitation, I would expect this to resolve itself soon. Some players who are not active in North America are getting a well-deserved rest, so business will start to pick up as they return. The group of players Everton are targeting will also affect the speed of deals. For example, although finances are now much more secure, the rules still prevent them from making a big bid.