Everton have not exactly flown out of the traps in the early stages of this summer’s transfer market.
David Moyes has set up base in Miami, where the 62-year-old has been spotted taking in some of the games at the FIFA Club World Cup.
There is still plenty of time for Everton to get to work in the market, but it is clear there is an awful amount of work needing to be done on Merseyside.
Everton are looking to upgrade their midfield before the 2025/26 campaign begins after weaknesses were exposed last season.
Although nothing has been confirmed yet, Everton hope Idrissa Gana Gueye will stay at the club, with a new contract on the table for the 35-year-old.
Regardless, Everton need midfield additions, but they are already coming up against issues in transfer discussions.
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Everton hit issues in transfer talks with Fred’s agent
A potential return to the Premier League could be on the cards as Everton show an interest in Fenerbahce’s Fred.
He is a player who would certainly provide the Toffees with some Premier League experience in the middle of the park.
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However, according to Sabah, talks between Everton and Fred’s agent have already raised some issues over a potential transfer.
The transfer fee being demanded by the Turkish giants is expected to be a problem for the Toffees.
It is claimed Fenerbahce are demanding a €15m (£12.8m) fee for the 32-year-old and have no intention of lowering that valuation.
Fred is not the only midfielder Everton have on their radar, though.
Everton are also interested in Yves Bissouma, and the Blues are certainly going to need to respond quickly if Gueye does decide to move on at the end of the month.
The Friedkins must be smart with their money
This is set to be the first summer in a long time where Everton are going to have money to spend following the Friedkins’ takeover.
The Friedkins are ready to back Everton in the transfer market, but they are going to have to spend carefully given the sheer number of players they require.
A whopping job is on the cards for the new-look backroom staff on Merseyside, with Angus Kinnear shocked by Everton’s to-do list after arriving from Leeds United.
With just one permanent signing secured this summer, it is now time for Everton to get a move on in the market.