“Concerned” – Former Everton star reveals Goodison Park’s summer transfer priority as Moyes sets his sights.

Everton had a relatively uneventful winter transfer window, despite earlier suggestions that The Friedkin Group would provide funds for new signings to strengthen the squad for the second half of the season [TEAMtalk].

The Toffees’ only signing of the window was Carlos Alcaraz, who arrived on a loan-to-buy agreement from Flamengo on deadline day.

This means David Moyes will have to navigate the remainder of the season with minimal reinforcements.

However, Everton are expected to have more financial flexibility in the summer, which could allow them to make more significant additions to the squad.

Moyes Eyeing Defensive Reinforcements in the Summer

Given Everton’s ongoing relegation battle, many expected the club to be more active in the winter transfer window, particularly following Moyes’ appointment as manager.

However, that did not happen, which left former Everton player Michael Ball perplexed.

He expressed his concerns about the club’s lack of activity but believes Moyes is already planning for the summer.

A new left-back appears to be a priority for the manager, as there are doubts over whether Vitalii Mykolenko can provide the same attacking quality that Leighton Baines once did in the position.

Ball shared his thoughts in his column for the Liverpool ECHO (11 February), stating:

“It’s a bit concerning when you look at what we could have done in January. While we understand the club’s financial situation, I believe the left-back position will be one of Moyes’ priorities come summer.

Since arriving, he has focused on getting the full-backs more involved in attack, delivering crosses and contributing offensively.

“The question is whether Mykolenko can do that consistently, week in and week out, the way Baines did under Moyes’ previous tenure.”

Major Squad Overhaul on the Horizon

While left-back is a clear area for improvement, Everton may also need to make widespread changes across the squad.

A staggering 13 players, including all loanees, have contracts expiring at the end of the season.

This list includes key names such as Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Idrissa Gueye, Abdoulaye Doucoure, and Ashley Young.

The club will have to make important decisions on who to retain and who to let go, potentially leading to multiple signings in the summer.

The left-back position remains a particular concern, as Mykolenko’s contract runs until 2026, but doubts persist about his ability to meet the demands of Moyes’ tactical approach.

Ball’s suggestion that a new full-back is high on the priority list seems well-founded.

Everton’s Survival Key to Transfer Plans

Everton’s recent upturn in form has given them some breathing room in the relegation battle.

Winning three consecutive Premier League matches has moved them nine points clear of the drop zone, with a game in hand.

Avoiding relegation will be crucial in determining the club’s ability to conduct a significant squad overhaul.

If they can secure their Premier League status, Moyes will likely have a stronger foundation to rebuild the squad and implement his vision for the team in the summer transfer window.