Everton face a huge summer as they aim to make a big leap forward following an encouraging second half of the 2024/25 campaign.
David Moyes landed back on Merseyside in January and the 62-year-old Scot was able to work his magic with the squad he inherited.
Now it is time for The Friedkin Group to put their hands in their pockets and provide Moyes with a squad capable of competing.
Everton are expected to be backed by the Friedkins in what is set to be their biggest summer in history.
It is not just the excitement of progressing under Moyes, but Everton also have a new stadium to look forward to.
The Friedkins want to make a statement signing this summer for the move, and it looks as if there could be a development at Finch Farm which will delight their 62-year-old boss.
Newcastle United FC v Everton FC - Premier League
Photo by Alex Dodd – CameraSport via Getty Images
Everton open contract talks with Jarrad Branthwaite
Whilst Everton await Idrissa Gana Gueye’s contract decision, the Toffees are wasting no time in attempting to secure another player’s future.
According to Sky Sports, Everton have now opened talks with Jarrad Branthwaite over extending his future on Merseyside.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
Branthwaite is receiving interest from Tottenham Hotspur this summer among a host of other Premier League clubs.
And the Blues do not want to lose their star defender despite Everton valuing Branthwaite at £80m.
The 22-year-old may still have two years and a club-option further year extension remaining, but the Toffees are keen to reward him with a bumper new deal.
Everton fans are delighted by Branthwaite’s contract talks, with some feeling it is better than an actual signing.
But there will be no one more pleased than Moyes.
What David Moyes said about Branthwaite’s future at Everton
Although he has suffered some injury issues, Branthwaite has established himself as the future of the Everton defence.
Interestingly, amid all of the transfer speculation, Branthwaite admitted he wants to captain Everton when they move into their new state-of-the-art home.
And this is something Moyes will surely have in his mind having spoken so frequently about keeping Branthwaite at the club.
“You have to remember Jarrad Branthwaite’s got a three-year contract left. He’s got two years and a year extension option. So, if anything, Everton hold all the cards regarding that player,” said Moyes.
“I wouldn’t think Jarrad will be one of the ones [leaving].”