Everton will be keen to add new signings to their squad over the summer transfer window after a much-improved season under David Moyes.
The Toffees have struggled with relegation battles and failing to finish in the top half of the Premier League table for many years, but last season saw real progress with a ninth-place finish.
Having put themselves in contention for European football throughout the campaign, the Blues will be keen to push on next season and finally secure a qualifying spot.
For that reason, a good transfer window, with new additions who can make a difference, will be absolutely essential.
What are Everton’s transfer plans?
According to The Athletic, Everton are prepared to be patient with their recruitment plans, as they expect most business won’t get done until July and August due to the World Cup.
The Toffees are reportedly interested in signing at least one new central midfielder, while a goalscoring right winger is also on the agenda.
A second wide forward could be targeted if they were to part ways with star player Iliman Ndiaye.
Who are Everton linked to?
Talks have continued between Everton and Middlesbrough over the signing of midfielder Hayden Hackney, but the Blues are yet to meet the Championship club’s valuation.
It is reported that Boro are not willing to budge on their valuation of more than £16m and are happy to let Hackney see out the final year of his contract if clubs are unwilling to match it.
Elsewhere, there are fresh reports that the Merseysiders are targeting one of the most sought-after players on the market.
According to Football Insider, Everton have made a preliminary move for West Ham United captain Jarrod Bowen.
The publication claims that the winger is keen to remain in the Premier League next season and is expected to move on from the London Stadium following the Hammers’ relegation to the Championship.
Other reports suggest that West Ham are set to demand at least £50m to part ways with their skipper.
Would Jarrod Bowen be a good signing for Everton?
There is no doubt that Everton’s biggest issue last season was their lack of presence in front of goal and inconsistency in the final third.
Not a single player in the squad hit double figures for goals in the Premier League, with Beto coming closest on nine.
As a result, the signing of Bowen would be warmly welcomed at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, as he is renowned for his consistency and effectiveness in front of goal.
The talented 29-year-old – once hailed as “unbelievable” by former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp – has scored 85 goals and registered 63 assists in 280 appearances for the Irons, averaging a goal contribution every 153 minutes.
Despite a difficult season in East London, Bowen still managed to deliver 11 goals and 12 assists, further demonstrating his resilience and consistency.
Bringing his experience, goal threat and leadership to the blue side of Merseyside would be an incredible piece of business, providing Everton with an immediate solution in their attacking threat.
Whether a move proves financially realistic remains to be seen, particularly with West Ham expected to demand a sizeable transfer fee.
However, if Everton are serious about building on last season’s progress and mounting a genuine challenge for European qualification, Bowen is exactly the calibre of player they should be targeting.
Proven in the Premier League and in the peak years of his career, he would represent both a statement signing and an immediate solution to one of Everton’s biggest problems.
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