Everton need a big summer if they are to challenge for European football next season.
David Moyes is targeting a return to Europe, although he does acknowledge it may not happen straight away.
A lot needs doing this summer in The Friedkin Group’s first major window, and to secure European football in their first full season of ownership might be asking for a lot.
But fans will want that regardless, and the executives will work hard to make sure Moyes has the most competitive squad possible.
Over the last few months, Everton have been making key appointments behind the scenes.
In the last couple of months Angus Kinnear was hired by Everton as the new CEO.
Nick Hammond also arrived at Everton after being a football adviser at Leeds United.
In order to have good recruitment, you need a good scout – and Everton now appear to be bringing someone in to help with that.
It’s been reported that James Smith is set to arrive from Manchester City.
Everton fans delighted as James Smith set to reunite with David Moyes
It’s been reported this afternoon by The Athletic that Everton are set to bring in James Smith from Manchester City.
Smith was the director of scouting and recruitment at City, but has now been placed on gardening leave by the club.
The move is expected to happen, and will see Smith reunite with Moyes, after he served as head of technical scouting at Everton from 2003.
It is stated that he will effectively replace Dan Purdy, Everton’s former head of recruitment.
Journalist Patrick Boyland stated when sharing the article that this move is to be seen as a real ‘coup’ for Everton.
On social media, Everton fans have been left excited by the news.
@Coal1878 said: “This could be a very exciting appointment for the future of Everton.”
@scouseblue47 said: “This is massive for us paddy.”
@efchayden added: “Surely this has to be good news.”
@EFCEnthusiast added: “Bring Grealish and McAtee with you pal.”
@EFCCollins11 said: “Good, this.”
James Smith to Everton can only be positive
When you consider just how successful Manchester City have been in recent years, this has to be great news for Everton.
City have brought some incredible players to England and Smith will have been heavily involved.
Plus there is obviously the fact he’s worked with Moyes before.
It is currently unclear when he might be able to start working for Everton given his gardening leave status.
Hopefully it will be as soon as possible. But at least it looks like he will come, and this is just another positive step The Friedkins have taken since they acquired the club.
Receive a digest of our best Everton content each week direct to your mailbox
