Everton’s recruitment in recent years has been really hit-and-miss.
Everton were once the big spenders in the Premier League for a time under Farhad Moshiri, but that didn’t bring much success.
In fact, it’s led to Financial Fair Play issues which saw them docked eight points last season in two separate charges.
So over the last few years, they’ve had to operate on a pretty limited budget, forcing them to be smart in their recruitment.
However, even then, they’ve managed to turn down the chance to sign a player for just £10m who’s now worth £58m and wanted by Barcelona.
Former Everton target Viktor Gyokeres now wanted by Barcelona
Frank Lampard wanted Everton to sign Viktor Gyokeres during the summer of 2022 when he was plying his trade at Coventry City.
But, the club decided against meeting his £10m valuation and instead opted to sign Salomon Rondon from the Chinese Super League.
Now, just over two years on, Gyokeres has established himself as one of the best strikers in Europe at Sporting.
The Swedish centre-forward has netted 67 goals in 69 outings since arriving in 2023 and he’s now attracting interest from Barcelona, according to Spanish outlet Sport.
The Catalan giants are eyeing a £58m deal.
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Everton still have issues to solve up front
Years after snubbing Gyokeres, Everton still have major issues to solve in attack as Dominic Calvert-Lewin continues to misfire.
Calvert-Lewin has netted just two league goals this season and looks completely bereft of confidence in front of goal.
Remarkably, Juventus are showing an interest in Calvert-Lewin ahead of the January transfer window, and it’s thought Everton may well sanction his sale.
So, they could be in the market for a striker in a few weeks, unless Armando Broja takes his opportunities upon returning from injury.
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