Everton were still contending with PSR issues during the 2023 summer transfer window.
Sean Dyche’s side had just avoided relegation by the narrowest of margins, as they beat Bournemouth on the final day to send Leicester City down.
So, there was clearly a need for Everton to significantly strengthen, but they had to be shrewd in their business.
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With that said, Dyche was actually targeting a move to sign Elliot Anderson, which is pretty remarkable foresight considering what levels he’s gone on to reach.
Everton missed out on Elliot Anderson transfer in 2023
According to GiveMeSport’s Ben Jacobs in 2023, Everton were keeping close tabs on then Newcastle United midfielder Elliot Anderson.
Dyche was keen to bolster his midfield ranks, and the Toffees boss identified Anderson as a target after his breakout season for the Magpies.
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The England international was fresh off the back of making 22 appearances Eddie Howe’s, which came after a productive loan spell to League Two with Bristol Rovers.
Many Championship clubs were showing an interest in taking him on loan, but Newcastle rebuffed those approaches.
Everton and Luton both explored a permanent deal, but were told he was not for sale.
Elliot Anderson is now worth £100m
A year after Everton’s interest, Anderson did end up leaving St James’ Park on a permanent transfer to Nottingham Forest.
Howe was forced to sanction his sale due to PSR issues, and so Forest managed to land his signature for around £35m.
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Since then, Anderson has gone from strength to strength and is now in the driving seat to start for England at the World Cup.
Several reports suggest he is now valued at around £100m amid interest from Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea.
What could have been for Everton.
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