The departure of Demarai Gray from Everton this summer has been delayed.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Saudi Arabian side Al Shabab’s move for Everton winger Demarai Gray has stalled. This is due to a change at board level for Al Shabab. In the meantime, another Saudi Arabian club have expressed an interest in the player.
It is clear that Gray is considered surplus to requirements at Everton. Sean Dyche has brought Arnaut Danjuma and Jack Harrison to Goodison Park this summer, with Gray no longer in his plans.
The 27-year-old will likely still get his move, especially with the Saudi Arabian transfer window due to remain open after the English transfer deadline. However, the onus is now on Al Shabab to get a deal done, with terms with the player already agreed.
Everton moving on from Gray
Despite having no future on Merseyside, Everton may find that they come to miss Gray at times this season. The winger is inconsistent, but is capable of the spectacular. He has also popped up with some vital goals for the Toffees since his arrival in a £1.7 million deal from Bayer Leverkusen in 2021.
Gray has been a regular for Everton in his two years at the club. Across his two seasons in blue, he has managed 75 appearances in all competitions, scoring 12 goals. The 5-cap Jamaica international still has the capacity to have an impact at Premier League level.
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However, a situation has now arisen where Everton want Gray gone, and the attacker himself is eager to leave.
Dyche’s focus now will be on the players that he will have at his disposal throughout the season. Everton have plenty of work to do, having endured a disastrous start to their campaign. Everton are yet to register a goal or secure a point and must show serious improvement against Sheffield United on Saturday.