Everton

**Everton After the Whistle: Moshiri Engages in New Negotiations Amid Takeover Twist and Transfer Pressure**

The final whistle at the Emirates on May 19 marked more than the end of a game for Arsenal, who clinched a late win against Everton courtesy of a Kai Havertz goal. The match concluded in controversy, with the goal standing despite a VAR review for a possible handball by Gabriel Jesus in the build-up. For Everton, the close of the season was merely a precursor to a series of developments and uncertainties.

In the immediate aftermath at the Emirates, Everton’s Seamus Coleman hinted at his intention to stay for a 16th season. The club had just released its retained list, confirming the departures of Andre Gomes, Dele, and Andy Lonergan, whose contracts would expire at the end of June. While Gomes and Lonergan did not feature in the final squad, Dele continues his rehabilitation from injury at Finch Farm. Everton triggered a 12-month extension for Idrissa Gueye and offered new deals to Coleman and Young.

Coleman expressed his love for Everton and his readiness to continue, emphasizing his value to the team both on and off the field. “I absolutely love the football club,” Coleman said, “and I feel I have a duty to help while I still can.” On international duty with Ireland, Coleman reiterated his commitment, and teammate Young also expressed a desire to stay for another year, citing his enjoyment of the past season and his belief in the club’s potential.

The importance of retaining experienced players like Coleman and Young is critical for Everton, given the thin squad Dyche managed last season. With loanees Jack Harrison and Arnaut Danjuma returning to their parent clubs and several academy players departing, the team faces significant changes. Among those leaving is Lewis Warrington, a 21-year-old academy graduate who made his Premier League debut last month. Other academy exits include Mackenzie Hunt, Kyle John, and Katia Kouyate, with Kouyate set to join League Two’s Barrow.

As the summer transfer window opens, Everton anticipates interest in key players. Selling players could be essential for meeting Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR) and avoiding further points deductions. Newcastle United is reportedly interested in Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who is in contract discussions with the club. Amadou Onana and Jarrad Branthwaite are also expected to attract attention. Onana’s recent comments hint at his ambition to join a top international club, though his involvement in the Euros may complicate transfer negotiations. Meanwhile, Branthwaite’s exclusion from the final England squad could make him a more immediate target for clubs like Manchester United.

Everton’s financial standing and PSR compliance remain uncertain, complicated by an ongoing dispute with the Premier League regarding the accounting for interest on loans tied to their new stadium development. The outcome of this dispute could significantly impact the club’s financial calculations.

However, the most significant uncertainty surrounds the ownership of the club. Majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri is seeking to sell his stake, but the expiration of his share purchase agreement with 777 Partners on May 31 left the club in limbo. 777 Partners, facing legal and regulatory issues, is no longer a viable buyer, opening the door for other bidders. Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor hinted at potential interest in Everton, though his capacity to sell his shares in Palace and make a competing bid is doubtful.

Since the expiration of the 777 Partners deal, Moshiri has been considering offers from various interested parties. These include proposals from Everton supporters Andy Bell and George Downing and a bid from London-based businessman Vatche Manoukian.

In this period of transition, Everton faces a crucial summer. The decisions made in the coming weeks regarding player transfers, contract renewals, and potential new ownership will shape the club’s immediate future and its long-term stability. As fans wait anxiously, the club’s leadership must navigate these challenges carefully to ensure Everton’s readiness for the next season and beyond.

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