Everton players and David Moyes at Etihad Stadium
Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff
Everton continued their unbeaten start to the Premier League season with a 2-2 draw against Hull City, but David Moyes will be frustrated not to have taken all three points back to Merseyside.
The Toffees held their 2-1 lead for just six minutes before the in-form Mohamed Belloumi managed to control a bouncing ball in the box and poke a shot past Jordan Pickford.
It's been a scintillating start to life in the Premier League for the Tigers man and, watching from the touchline, you wouldn't blame David Moyes for wondering what the 24-year-old might look like in Everton blue.
Everton must replace hole left by Iliman Nidaye
Manchester City's Iliman Ndiaye
Manchester City's Iliman Ndiaye
Everton are in need of attacking reinforcements; that is no secret. The departure of Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City has left a big hole in terms of both creativity and goals.
Beto was also shown the door at the Hill Dickinson late in the transfer window and, while Jack Grealish has returned on loan from Manchester City, is not a long-term option for Everton.
Investment in the position is needed in January, but it will be hard to land a marquee arrival with any sellers all too aware of the Toffees' predicament. A more targeted purchase may need to wait until January and, whether or not Hull City avoid the drop, launching an enquiry for Belloumi could be a shrewd move - and there's no harm in starting work on a potential deal now.
Mohamed Belloumi could be next Richarlison on Merseyside
Belloumi nets brace vs Chelsea
Belloumi nets brace vs Chelsea
Belloumi was left out of the starting XI against Everton due to fatigue but was a gamechanger from the bench, being hailed as a 'great player' and someone who can 'make the difference' by Sergej Jakirovic after full time.
The forward has already bagged three goals and two assists in six fixtures this term, and looks the real deal. Belloumi offers much more than just that vital output too.
A left-footed right winger, the forward loves to cut in off the flank and get a shot off at goal. His 15 shots in 424 minutes this season show the signs of a forward desperate to make things happen.
The Tigers' man is also a team player. His 16 tackles, nine interceptions and 15 recoveries this season are impressive statistics. It's mouth-watering to think of the player in an Everton shirt.
A move for the player would hold the hallmarks of how Everton signed Richarlison in 2018. Also a right-footed left-winger, the Brazil international had just enjoyed his first top flight campaign, with five goals in 38 appearances for Watford.
Just like Richarlison was, Belloumi is an unfinished product. Importantly, he has the swagger and confidence to flourish in the Premier League.
Should the wheels come off at the MKM Stadium and Hull City be relegated, a swoop for Belloumi would obviously be easier. However, Watford did not go down the summer that Richarlison was persuaded to move to Everton.
There's a long way to go this season, but all the signs are that Belloumi has real attacking quality at this level. Everton are desperate for that.
David Moyes looks on during Everton vs Bournemouth
David Moyes looks on during Everton vs Bournemouth