Everton’s striking woes of late dissipated somewhat on Saturday, as Nottingham Forest were the victims of Thierno Barry’s first goal in the royal blue shirt.
But that hasn’t stopped Everton boss David Moyes from previously telling owners The Friedkin Group that he wants additions in the January transfer window to push ahead in the race for a top-half Premier League finish at the very minimum.
Moyes has seen his side into seventh in the table, but goals have been a struggle with Beto and Thierno Barry only scoring one goal apiece in the top-flight this season, both against bottom half opponents.
And, with Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee being in their sights, new Everton ownership The Friedkin Group could sweep the rug from under Moyes’ feet in the coming weeks with Roma, who they also own, looking to complete a deal for the attacker.
Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee.
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images
The Friedkin Group could give Roma advantage over Everton in the race for Joshua Zirkzee
Everton had been linked with Joshua Zirkzee earlier in the season after Barry’s struggles continued and Beto struggled to garner starts at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
However, The Friedkin Group may just throw a spanner in the works, with Sky Italia claiming that Roma are moving to bring boss Gian Piero Gasperini an attacking boost.
Roma are thought to want Zirkzee through the door in the opening few days of January, with the Dutchman having excelled at Serie A level previously with Bologna.
What more do you want to see from the Friedkins at Everton? 💰
Dan Friedkin's message to Everton fans after completing their takeover.
Credit: Getty Images/Fabio Rossi/AS Roma.
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Negotiations are underway with Manchester United for Zirkzee, with Roma offering a loan deal with an obligation for a permanent switch if certain objectives are met.
Meanwhile, United would like to cash in, given they already have Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount to play in the ‘Number 10’ roles that Ruben Amorim likes, as well as having Benjamin Sesko to lead the line.
Everton are badly in need of a striker who can at least hit double figures in the Premier League
Despite Thierno Barry getting off the mark and having an incredible work ethic to go with his goal, another forward may be in Everton’s plans as they bid to qualify for Europe.
Goals are slowly coming to the Toffees but they are largely coming from other areas of the pitch. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in particular has been scoring for fun recently.
Do you want to see Richarlison return to Everton?
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It’s been a while since Everton had a striker capable of scoring double figures in a league season, with Richarlison the last player to achieve that feat with 10 goals in the 2021-22 campaign. Interestingly, Richarlison has also been linked with an Everton return.
And, if Everton can add a talisman of that quality, then a continental run could certainly be on the cards for David Moyes.
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