David Moyes has been speaking about potential Everton transfer activity ahead of next Monday's deadline day
David Moyes has hinted there could be transfer activity at Everton in the final week of the winter window. The Blues’ only incoming so far this month was Harrison Armstrong being brought back early from his season long loan at Preston North End.
Meanwhile, fourth-choice goalkeeper Harry Tyrer joined Cardiff City, right-back Roman Dixon went on loan to the Welsh club’s League One promotion rivals Stockport County and centre-back Will Tamen joined League Two neighbours Tranmere Rovers on loan.
Last year, Everton’s solitary new face was Charly Alcaraz, who arrived on a deadline day loan from Flamengo, which has subsequently been turned into a permanent switch. Premier League clubs have until 7pm on Monday before the window closes.
Asked about the potential of any late Blues deals, Moyes said: “I’d like to say we’re out there looking. I think I’ve said in every press conference you’ve asked us, we’re certainly looking.
“It’s not like we’re shying away from it. I would say it’s probably less likely than likely.
“I think in January you can find players, so it’s not to say that you can’t get it, but I think we’re seeing this window becoming quite a difficult one for a lot of teams.”
Moyes was then asked about potential outgoings with reports of an offer from Lazio for Tim Iroegbunam. He said: “People might (leave). But at the moment, we’re not planning to, but they may well do.”
Moyes did admit that Everton, who failed in an attempt to sign Kenny Tete on a Bosman-style free transfer from Fulham last summer when the Dutchman changed his mind and penned a new deal at Craven Cottage, remain in the hunt for a right-back.
Asked about Nathan Patterson’s form, Moyes, whose team travel to Brighton & Hove Albion tomorrow (Saturday) said: “I think he’s done okay. We’ve been actively looking for a right-back for over a year, but I think Patto, when he’s come in, hasn’t let us down, so we hope he continues to improve and keep going.”
One player whose future remains in the balance is home-grown hero Armstrong.
The midfielder, who turned 19 last week, was recalled early from his season long loan at Preston on New Year’s Day and has featured in all five of Everton’s matches in January, starting the last four.
The West Derby-born prospect could yet return to Deepdale before deadline day to continue his football education in the Championship.
Moyes said: “I won’t make a decision certainly until after Brighton and we’ve played there. I’m in regular contact with Peter Ridsdale and Paul Heckingbottom at Preston, so I’m on the phone to them every couple of days about it.
“Again, we’ll wait and see how things go but he’s not looked out of place in the Premier League - that would be the biggest compliment I could give Harrison, that’s for sure.”