Journalist Connor O’Neill would be “very surprised” if Everton brought in any new players in the January transfer window.
The Toffees spent around £32million in the summer on Youssef Chermiti and Beto, while Ashley Young arrived on a free and Jack Harrison and Arnaut Danjuma arrived on loan.
Sean Dyche would no doubt like to add to his squad as Everton look to push further clear of the relegation zone, but O’Neill cannot see that happening.
Writing for the Liverpool Echo [25 December], he said: “In terms of incomings, I would be very surprised if we were to see anyone arrive next month, although if pushed, I would like to see the Blues add another midfielder to their ranks, especially with Idrissa Gueye heading to the Africa Cup of Nations.”
Unlikely
While Everton have been in superb form since being docked 10 points – even accounting for the narrow loss at Tottenham – they are not completely safe from relegation just yet.
Heading into the Boxing Day action, Dyche’s men are four points clear of the bottom three, which is far too close a margin to be able to breathe safely.
In an ideal world, one new player will be brought in next month to freshen up the squad, but that seems highly unlikely given the whole takeover situation.
Everton cannot afford to rest on their laurels with half the season still to play, especially when Luton Town now appear to have some momentum on their side.
Perhaps of more importance, though, is keeping the squad intact. Jarrad Branthwaite has been linked with a big-money move away, while Danjuma may reportedly return to parent club Villarreal.
Whatever happens over the next month, Dyche will have full confidence in his ability to keep this Everton side up.
