Everton’s squad returned to Finch Farm this week for the start of pre-season training, but the roster might look different by the time the transfer window closes. Manager Sean Dyche and his coaching staff are focused on maximizing the players’ fitness levels. Next week, the squad will travel to Ireland for a training camp, culminating in their first summer friendly at captain Seamus Coleman’s former club, Sligo Rovers. Afterward, the Blues will return to England for matches against Salford City, Coventry City, and Preston North End, before wrapping up their pre-season with a potential final friendly at Goodison Park against Roma, ahead of their Premier League opener against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Dyche and director of football Kevin Thelwell will use this period to evaluate the squad. Although Lewis Dobbin and Ben Godfrey have already been sold, and Tim Iroegbunam and Iliman Ndiaye have joined, more changes are expected before the August 30 deadline. Here’s a closer look at players with uncertain futures.
Everton captain Seamus Coleman highlighted the talent of Jarrad Branthwaite after the final game of last season at Arsenal, noting, “You can’t really hide talent like that for long.” Branthwaite, Everton’s breakthrough star of 2023/24, is attracting interest from Manchester United. However, Old Trafford’s offers have yet to meet Everton’s valuation. Despite United’s pursuit and interest in other defenders like Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt, Everton remains firm on their valuation, drawing comparisons to high-profile transfers such as Harry Maguire, Wesley Fofana, and Josko Gvardiol. They rejected United’s second offer of £45 million plus add-ons, following an initial £35 million bid. Everton plans to keep Branthwaite unless an extraordinary offer is made.
Everton’s £25.75 million acquisition of Portuguese striker Beto from Udinese last August has raised questions less than a year into his tenure. Beto, who scored double digits in Italy’s Serie A, managed only three goals in 30 Premier League appearances last season. While his presence created some chaos for opposition defenses, he lacked the polish of Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Calvert-Lewin’s uncertain future adds another layer of complexity to Beto’s position in the squad.
The evaluation of the squad continues as Everton aims to solidify their team for the upcoming season. The pre-season training and friendlies will provide an opportunity for players to prove their worth and for the management to make necessary adjustments. The transfer window’s early closure on August 30 means Everton must finalize their decisions promptly, balancing player sales and acquisitions to build a competitive team for the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.
