Everton Football Club has always been on the periphery when it comes to the pre-eminent teams in the Premier League. Even when considering the traditional top-six clubs of Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham, it appears Leicester has the best chance of breaking into that group (if they already haven't).

This year is no different, except West Ham has taken advantage of a stuttering Arsenal and currently sit in the top-six of the Premier League table. Everton's only finish in the top four was in 2005 under David Moyes and they haven't been in the top six since a 5th place finish in 2014 under Roberto Martínez. However, since the Farhad Moshiri majority takeover in 2016, the club has poured money into the squad in an attempt to qualify for the Champions League. The spending hasn't always been intelligent; however, under Carlo Ancelotti, what signings could Everton make to crack the top four?

Gianluigi Donnarumma

At first glance, this may appear to be another superstar signing that won't translate to Everton. The Toffees have been stung recently by high profile additions which just haven't panned out.

However, Donnarumma would be an excellent acquisition. Pickford remains questionable, even if Gareth Southgate selects him for England. Everton could start moving forward confidently with a strong, commanding presence between the sticks and the Italian seems to be unsettled at A.C. Milan, despite their improved table position. Many of the top clubs are settled for their first-choice keeper, and Ancelotti could make the transition to the Premier League easier for the 22-year-old.

Making an intelligent signing of a young player who can still develop, rather than the marquee buy, would be a step in the right direction for the club. Everton has brought in too many players in the same position recently, simply due to their name. A more coherent transfer strategy formed with long-term planning in mind and aided by an extensive scouting network will see the club develop for years to come. There are a multitude of areas where teams can look to use external services such as scouting agencies and data analytics companies to influence decision-making. However, this isn't just limited to football or big clubs as there are services in industries such as automotive, online casino and airlines. For example, websites like Auto Trader comprise lists of used and new cars across the country for sale, making it easier for buyers and some websites compile the different online casinos and sort them into sections like best bonuses or best mobile casinos, as bonusfinder explains clearly.

Sven Botman/Matthias Ginter

Everton needs a centre back, and this section suggests two, just in case one doesn't work. Sven Botman currently plays for Lille and fits the bill for youth as he is just 21-years-old. Despite his age, the Dutch defender is a commanding 6 ft 4 in player who can lead a backline. He may be a wanted man, especially with his strong season at Lille. However, Ginter would be a suitable second option. The German is still relatively young for a centre-back at 27 and could instantly transform Everton's defence.

Leon Bailey

Finally, we have Leon Bailey, who is taking the Bundesliga by storm with Bayer Leverkusen. The pacy wide man would be a stellar addition to create a fearsome three-headed attack with Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison. They would all be around the same age and could lead the line for Everton into the future.

Everton has had a decent first full season under Carlo Ancelotti; however, if they are to make the next step and break into the top-four, they need to be shrewd in the transfer