During Sean Dyche’s reign, Everton had to stick to a shrewd budget.
Everton had PSR issues which restricted their spending and it resulted in a points deduction in the 2023/24 campaign.
Sean Dyche did get some cash to spend, so when he did, it had to be the perfect recruit with no room for failure.
Some of his additions were successful, with the likes of Iliman Ndiaye and Jake O’Brien, to name a couple.
However, there were many failures, too, and it’s just as well he didn’t manage to land one of his main targets in 2023 as he now can’t start a game in the Championship.
Wilfried Gnonto struggling at Leeds United
During the summer of 2023, Everton were desperate to sign Leeds United winger Wilfried Gnonto.
Sean Dyche was chasing Gnonto for much of the window and even lodged a £23m bid for the Italy international.
Everton were very close to landing Gnonto’s signature, however, Leeds wouldn’t back down on their £30m valuation.
Ultimately, it’s turned out to be a hidden blessing for the Toffees, as Gnonto just hasn’t progressed as many expected.
The 21-year-old has netted just six times in the Championship this season and has been reduced to a bench player since the turn of the year, though, he did get himself on the scoresheet against Swansea City on Saturday.
Even still, Gnonto hasn’t started a league game since the 29th of December.
Everton signed Jack Harrison instead
Everton ended up signing Gnonto’s teammate Jack Harrison instead.
And, in truth, that deal hasn’t really worked out as the Leeds loanee has netted just five goals in 64 outings across his two seasons on Merseyside.
Everton fans have been heavily critical of Harrison, however, since David Moyes returned to the club, there has been an improvement.
Moyes seems to be getting a tune out of the former England under-21 international, but it’s unlikely they’ll make his loan deal a permanent one in the summer.
Everton could sign Tom Fellows as his replacement.
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