Who Dan Ashworth Could Target as His First Signing at Everton if He Replaces Kevin Thelwell – Opinion

Alan Myers anticipates Everton’s takeover to be finalized this week, marking the beginning of significant changes for the club in the coming months.

Among the key areas under scrutiny is Sean Dyche’s position as manager, with reports suggesting that the Friedkin Group, the incoming owners, have identified a three-man shortlist to potentially replace him.

One of their rumored candidates, Graham Potter, is now being linked with a move to RB Leipzig, which may eliminate him from consideration.

In addition to managerial changes, the new ownership is expected to overhaul the boardroom, with a potential replacement for Kevin Thelwell as director of football.

Dan Ashworth, who left Manchester United under challenging circumstances, is tipped as a leading candidate for the director role.

Ashworth has a proven track record of talent identification, having achieved great success during his tenures at Brighton and Newcastle United.

Some of his standout signings include Moises Caicedo, Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon, Kaoru Mitoma, and Leandro Trossard.

He also played a pivotal role in developing Brighton’s South American scouting network, which continues to produce exceptional talent.

If Ashworth joins Everton, one of his first moves could involve signing Julio Enciso.

The Paraguayan playmaker, who emerged as a promising talent at Brighton, suffered a setback due to a meniscus tear last year.

This injury, coupled with limited opportunities this season, has led Enciso to seek a move in January.

According to La Nacion, he prefers to remain in England, making Everton a plausible destination.

Enciso’s talent has been widely recognized. Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi once described the midfielder as having “big potential” after a standout performance against Manchester City in 2023.

“The goal was incredible, but Julio has big, big potential,” De Zerbi said, as quoted by the Manchester Evening News. “I want him to play better for the team, and I think he can improve.”

Enciso’s spectacular strike in that match earned a nomination for the Puskas Award, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star.

If Everton were to secure Enciso’s signature, it could be a transformative move for the club.

The young playmaker, once linked with Manchester City, has the potential to become a game-changer.

His arrival would represent a bold step in Everton’s efforts to strengthen their squad and ensure survival in the Premier League under the new regime.