Everton fans will be disappointed to watch the Toffees crash out of the Carabao Cup on penalties against Southampton last week.

Searching for their first win at Goodison Park since 1997, the Saints took an early lead through on-loan Liverpool striker, Danny Ings, who continued his impressive record of scoring against Everton. Both sides had opportunities to add to the scoreline, but it wasn’t until the 85^th minute that Theo Walcott scored against his former club to send the game to penalties. Richarlison and Walcott missed their spot-kicks to send the Saints into the next round.

Losing an opportunity to win silverware will be disappointing for Marco Silva, but Everton can now enjoy a less congested fixture list as we enter the busy festive period. As well as focusing on their upcoming fixtures, the Portuguese should also be keeping a close eye on potential January transfer targets who could give Everton a welcome boost in the New Year. One man who should be on his shortlist is Lyon forward – Bertrand Traore.

Valued at £16.2m by Transfermarkt, the winger joined the French side from Chelsea on a permanent deal last season after spending multiple seasons away from Stamford Bridge on loan. The 23-year-old made an excellent start to life in Ligue 1, ending the season with 18 goals and seven assists in all competitions. Traore’s tremendous form has continued into the new campaign with four goals already to his name.

The youngster combines electric pace with superb dribbling ability which makes him a nightmare for defenders to deal with. Despite being primarily right-footed, Traore is an unpredictable winger who can create chances out of nothing. Now developing into a prolific finisher, the Burkina Faso international could be the final piece of the puzzle for Silva.

Everton could make Chelsea rue the day they allowed Traore to depart the club.

Everton fans, thoughts?