As the deadline looms, Everton will find plenty of issues with late deals, and it looks as though a key target is looking elsewhere.
The Toffees still have a few areas they need to strengthen this summer, as despite David Moyes’ squad looking a lot fresher, it’s certainly not the finished article.
It has to be said though, the difference between last summer and this summer is a stark contrast, as Everton have spent over £60 million more than 2024.
A serious change has been made by The Friedkin Group, but their job isn’t done this window.
Ahead of the Blues’ next Premier League game against Wolves, Vitor Pereira’s side are ruffling a few feathers in the Everton camp.
Middlesbrough's Hayden Hackney in action.
Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images
Wolves have added Everton midfield target Hayden Hackney to options
After a gruelling summer for Moyes, he won’t want any more messing about before the window slams shut.
A midfielder has been a key priority for the Scotsman, and Hayden Hackney has been a target since June.
But, Saturday’s opponents are stirring the pot, as along with West Ham and Ipswich, who are also interested, Vitor Pereira’s side have added Hackney to their options.
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It looks like the Middlesbrough star is destined to leave his boyhood club this summer, but who for is a mystery at this stage.
£20 million+ is wanted for Hackney, and the Toffees must move for him if a key decision is made by Moyes.
If Harrison Armstrong is loaned out Everton must go all in for Hayden Hackney
The choice that now needs to be made in the final three days of the window is whether Harrison Armstrong is loaned out this season or not.
Moyes has hinted at Armstrong staying, but it’s also become clear that another loan spell could be in the works for the 18-year-old’s development.
Even though Armstrong was better defensively than Hackney last season, the Championship midfielder is an attacking threat, which can be added to the exciting options already at the club.
Losing midfield depth in the young Everton star means a replacement will have to come in, and Hackney looks to be the real deal.
But the Toffees have plenty of competition, and a lot rests on Moyes’ decision with Armstrong in the remaining days.