Everton look to be enjoying a new era under David Moyes and could be set to launch an offensive to complete a bargain move once the New Year comes around.
Everton willing to trigger Omar El Hilali's release clause
The summer window saw an influx of arrivals at the Hill Dickinson Stadium that marked the start of a new era for all involved, with Jack Grealish being the pick of the bunch after claiming the Premier League Player of the Month award.
While the England international impressed in a 0-0 draw against former club Aston Villa on Saturday, Everton have already made Espanyol full-back Omar El Hilali one of their main priorities come January and plan to trigger his £26 million release clause once the mid-season market opens.
Espanyol defender Omar El Hilali
After trying and failing to land him during the summer, Moyes may now act to bring in some competition on the right-hand side of defence for Jake O'Brien, putting another piece of the jigsaw in place as the Toffees continue to probe on the transfer front.
Solidity is a quality that has underpinned the Scot's sides over the years, but that also needs to be tempered with offensive quality, something that slowly appears to be emerging due to the Friedkin Group's investment power.
Despite the window being closed, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has emerged as a free agent target for Everton, potentially offering a balance of the two qualities in the engine room.
Optimism is growing on the blue half of Merseyside and supporters appear willing to stick with Moyes' blueprint as his side find their niche in the Premier League, and they may now be ready to sanction a bargain move come 2026.
Everton hopeful of bargain permanent Jack Grealish transfer
According to The Telegraph, Everton are hopeful they can sign Jack Grealish for less than his £50 million transfer option included in his loan agreement at Manchester City.
The outlet claim a bargain deal may be possible due to his clause being a result of accountancy rather than being set in stone, given he has two years on his deal at the Etihad Stadium and his market value at the club was factored in before Pep Guardiola sanctioned his departure.
Loved by Wayne Rooney due to his character on and off the field, Grealish has registered four assists in his first five matches for the Toffees across all competitions and has endeared himself as a fan favourite due to some dazzling displays.
However, his wages are said to be around £12 million per year and that may be a sticking point in negotiations, meaning a free transfer may be the only way for Everton to afford the Three Lions man if they were to take on his full earnings.
Time will tell on that front, but it is clear to see that Everton and Grealish have hit it off instantly and their relationship is worth continuing at any cost.