Everton are experiencing a rejuvenation of sorts as The Friedkin Group look to find the right targets for David Moyes.
So far, it’s not been a perfect transfer window, but with just under three weeks left, the loan signing of Jack Grealish is a great coup.
More additions are still needed, but the Toffees are looking in a much better place despite the late business.
Abdul Fatawu is a new name on Everton’s radar, with the Scotsman still wanting more attacking options after minimal goals last season.
There could still be another area that needs improvement, but it appears Everton have received a swift rejection.
Sunderland's Dan Neil with his hand on his head.
Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images
Everton target Dan Neil won’t be leaving Sunderland this window
The Blues’ options in midfield still look fairly sparse, as in terms of more defensive-minded players in the middle of the park, Idrissa Gana Gueye is the only one proving his worth.
Moyes will want more energy in his side, and the signing of Sunderland’s Dan Neil could have been the perfect option, but journalist Mike McGrath has stated that Neil is ‘going nowhere’ this window.
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It’s said that the 23-year-old rejected Premier League offers, and this could have quite easily included the Toffees after Everton really wanted Neil.
After performing excellently in the Championship, bringing in the Englishman would have been good business, but it looks as though Moyes will have to wait.
Nevertheless, the Scotsman will be sticking around Sunderland, as The Friedkin Group look to cement a masterplan.
Sunderland’s Chris Rigg is one to watch for Everton’s future
Although it’s frustrating that Neil is no longer an option, Everton are looking at the better Sunderland midfielder.
This comes after Everton’s desire to sign Chris Rigg, as even though it’s another deal not happening this summer, Moyes will be watching Rigg closely.
Both Rigg and Neil have the attributes Everton need as a box-to-box midfielder, as fans aren’t convinced by James Garner.
Statistics Chris Rigg Dan Neil
Games played 42 44
Chances created 42 30
Fouls won 54 53
Duels won per 90 4.95 4.85
Long ball accuracy % 53.1% 52.8%
Chris Rigg and Daniel for Sunderland in 2024/25 Championship season
With both young midfielders fighting for the same position, there is bound to come a time when one wants to leave, and for Moyes’ sake, he’ll hope it’s the 18-year-old.
There was a possibility that if Sunderland didn’t get promoted they’d lose star players, and with relegation a likely scenario, Moyes is waiting to strike.