Everton had a number of first-teamers out of contract this summer, with the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Abdoulaye Doucoure moving on.
That meant David Moyes had a big rebuild job on his hands, prompting the Friedkin Group to back him with nine new signings.
Everton’s squad is now significantly stronger and there is a growing belief around Finch Farm that European football could be on the horizon.
That’s certainly the goal for Moyes, who earlier this year said: “We had an incredible time at West Ham and winning a European trophy. But now back at Everton, I’ve got to try and set the same sort of sights for Everton as well.
“In the early parts of my career when I was Everton manager, we did get to Europe quite regularly and it has to be, I feel as if it has to be a target for us.”
However, despite a number of quality additions, not everything could be sorted in one window and there are still a number of players who are out of contract next summer.
Here are the 10 first-teamers with deals that expire in 2026.
Vitaliy Mykolenko looks on during Blackburn vs Everton.
Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images
Vitali Mykolenko
Vitali Mykolenko joined Everton in the January 2022 window and has endured a turbulent career on Merseyside.
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Moyes has a decision to make on whether to extend his deal or to go with the new recruit Adam Aznou as his first choice and recruit someone willing to play a back-up role.
James Garner
James Garner’s deal expires next summer, although, given how much Moyes rates him, he’s almost certain to get an extension.
Moyes has been in awe of Garner’s performances this season, despite having to ply his trade out of position as a left-back.
James Tarkowski
Another Moyes favourite James Tarkowski is currently set to become a free agent in less than 12 months time.
Like Garner, though, the Scotsman and his chiefs are likely to offer Tarkowski a new deal, but it may not be the most favourable terms.
The former Burnley centre-back turns 33 in November and could only be offered a one-year contract.
Michael Keane
This is expected to be Michael Keane’s final season as an Everton player after joining from Burnley in 2017.
Keane’s early career at Goodison Park earned him caps for England, however, he’s not been able to sustain that level.
He’s deputised well for the injured Jarrad Branthwaite this season, though.
Idrissa Gana Gueye
Another one who’s almost certainly playing his final season at the club is Idrissa Gana Gueye, who was given a one-year deal in the summer to help the squad transition to the new stadium.
The veteran midfielder has been a terrific servant and remains one of the best ball winners in Europe, statistically.
Seamus Coleman
Seamus Coleman is coming towards the end of his career and is already taking on roles that a coach would usually do.
Moyes has hired Coleman to be a motivational speaker before games and clearly has a place in his backroom staff when he decides to hang up the boots.