Everton will need to make sure their next bit of business for a right-winger is much better than Jack Harrison’s spell.
Harrison found it a struggle during the two seasons he was at Goodison Park with David Moyes, only just getting a slight glimpse of him at the end.
Despite Harrison being let go by the Toffees with a permanent deal not appearing in sight, Moyes hasn’t ruled out Harrison’s return.
The likelihood is that there won’t be an Everton return in store, but football can provide unlikely things.
It’s clear Everton fans don’t want Harrison back, and instead, Moyes should try and pinch a forward Bournemouth are after.
Photo by Photo Prestige/Soccrates/Getty Images
Photo by Photo Prestige/Soccrates/Getty Images
Everton should reignite interest in Johan Bakayoko with Bournemouth snooping
A player who would add to what The Friedkin Group are building at Everton is Johan Bakayoko.
The PSV right-winger has been a revelation for the Dutch giants since he came through the academy, but now it appears the Belgian could be off this summer.
It’s looking like the 22-year-old could be after a new challenge, and Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth side are set to table a £20m offer.
MORE EVERTON STORIES
This should raise alarm bells in the Toffees camp, as Everton were previously interested in Bakayoko.
The winger rejected a move from PSG for just over £12.5m in 2023, and now Everton should look to challenge the Cherries for £20m this time round.
READ MORE: Maurizio Sarri might have to force his hand as Everton eager to sign £30m striker
Bakayoko would be perfect for Everton after Romelu Lukaku praise
The upgrade on Harrison next season with Bakayoko would be massive, as the Belgian has shown to be a serious threat in that PSV side.
Gary Neville labelled Harrison ‘poor’ last season, and this isn’t the standard Everton need with their future looking bright.
Bakayoko would be an absolute bargain as his number at PSV last season speaks for itself.
Bakayoko’s statistics for PSV in 24/25 league season
Games played 30
Goal involvements 10 (9G+1A)
Chances created 36
Successful Dribbles per 90 2.68
Tackles won % 73.7%
To back up just how good he actually is, Belgium teammate and former Everton striker, Romelu Lukaku, said in 2023 to journalist Alfredo Pedulla, that Bakayoko could ‘surpass’ him as a player.
“He’s understanding the importance of numbers in the game. His assist and goal tallies are increasing, bringing him into the spotlight. I’ve told him how incredible,” Lukaku said.
“I find his play, and if he continues merging his creative flair with his scoring record, he’s on track to become a top-tier player. His potential knows no bounds. I sincerely think he has what it takes to surpass me in the long run.”
It’s clear that a right-winger is a priority at Everton, and Moyes must look no further than trying to land Bakaoyoko, as £20m could prove to be the steal of the season.