Since the Friedkin Group’s takeover in December 2024, Everton have been on an upward trajectory.
The Friedkin Group have taken Everton from a relegation-threatened side to a potential European challenger.
Behind the scenes, the American investors have been working on commercial deals for the Toffees, which will help to increase investment in the team.
David Moyes was backed with a budget in excess of £100m last summer transfer window, with notable additions like Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
It’s been a bit quieter in the January window, but Everton are expected to sign three players, and the rumoured targets highlight the Friedkin’s brave recruitment model.
Everton are clearly looking to sign young talent again
Based on the transfer links that are emerging, it’s clear that the Friedkin Group are looking to recruit young talent this month.
Everton’s owners wanted to drive down the average age last year and evidently still want to deploy the same model.
The Toffees are showing an interest in Ethan Nwaneri, who is an 18-year-old playmaker for Arsenal. 21-year-old Tiago Gabriel is also being linked to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Everton fans, would you back a move for Ethan Nwaneri this month? 🤔
It's been claimed we've taken a look at the Arsenal youngster…
(via journalist Ben Jacobs)
Brooke Norton-Cuffy (21) and Wolves’ teenage wonderkid Mateus Mane (18) are also among the shortlist of targets.
It’s a brave approach from the Merseysiders, as it hasn’t really worked out with Tyler Dibling or Adam Aznou so far.
Moyes is a manager who really values experience, so it’ll be interesting to see if there is a little disagreement behind the scenes on the transfer targets.
Everton should focus on experience for key positions
For Everton to become a top-six side, they will need a blend of experience and young talent across the team.
One rule of thumb should be that the key positions are filled with experience. The spine of the team – goalkeeper, centre-back, midfielder and striker – should ideally be seasoned professionals.
Who would be your dream Everton signing this month? 👀
Whereas other areas of the pitch can be young players who are still learning their trade, but with bags of ability.
Perhaps the mistake Everton made last summer was recruiting a really inexperienced striker in Thierno Barry.
That role should’ve really gone to a proven goalscorer at the top level, so these are the conversations Everton chiefs will no doubt be having with Moyes.
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox
