Everton’s campaign this season has been pretty much what many would have expected but the Toffees face a stern test to qualify for European football next term, whilst their FA Cup exit at the weekend gave them little to play for.
January is set to be a busy month for Ronald Koeman as he looks to improve his squad at Goodison Park, with owner Farhad Moshiri arriving to hopefully release funds, though the Toffees need to be wary of any January exits they agree too.
With a squad full of capable players, bigger clubs may launch a swoop for some of the better-ranked players within Everton’s set up, whilst approving exits prematurely for some fringe players could be a decision that comes back to haunt the club.
As much optimism as Koeman’s arrival on Merseyside originally brought with it, it’s a nervous time for the Toffees propping up the bar in the Transfer Tavern.
There are plenty of rumours surrounding Everton currently flooding the gossip pages, including talk of exits, but they should definitely not accept a departure for these two first-team players.
Gerard Deulofeu
The Spaniard has found first-team football difficult to come by this season and recent reports have indicated that AC Milan are keen on a loan move. However, Everton should definitely snub any offers that come their way.
Deulofeu is a capable player with bags of potential and has the capability of forcing his way into the first-team. He’s just one injury or loss of form away from the starting line-up, which means he isn’t really a player Everton can sacrifice.
Tom Cleverley
Amidst reports of a loan deal to Watford being approved, which may turn into a permanent deal, Everton should throw a spanner in the works. Whilst it’s a move that could work well for all parties, the Toffees should ensure they have a replacement first.
The 27-year-old has been a fringe player for Everton this season but central-midfield options are in short supply at Goodison Park, with Idrissa Gueye, Ross Barkley and Gareth Barry the only real options excluding James McCarthy.
