Earlier in the summer, Everton boss David Moyes insisted that he wanted 10 new signings this window. With nine incomings in total, the Scot almost got his wish.
With investment in key areas, we are no doubt stronger now than at the beginning of the summer. While there are still areas in which to strengthen, we were never going to resolve the issues persistent in each position.
However, this has been easily our best window for some time. Our midfield, in particular, is much stronger and there is excitement in watching Everton play again.
We’ve added two reserve goalkeepers to the ranks in Mark Travers (age 26) and Tom King (age 30). With Asmir Begovic (age 38), and Joao Virginia (age 25) departing. Both keepers have experience, and the average goalkeeping age has reduced significantly.
Adam Aznou (age 19) is our only defensive arrival, the left-back joining from Bayern Munich. An injury sustained against AS Roma has limited his game time so far, but the lad has a promising reputation. A right-back was really a must this summer, and it’s disappointing one wasn’t brought in.
Charly Alcaraz (age 22) made his loan deal permanent and got off the mark with a goal against Mansfield Town last week. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (age 26) further strengthens our midfield, and is perhaps the most astute signing of the summer. His movement, range of passing and industry have been key already this season, and the lad can finish too.
Deadline day signing Merlin Rohl (age 23) was a signing that came out of the blue. The Germany U21 midfielder has Bundesliga experience with Freiburg and will add depth to our defensive midfield options. This will be especially significant due to Gueye’s participation at AFCON. The signing also allowed young Harrison Armstrong to go out on loan to Preston.
BLUES HAVE ADDED QUALITY IN KEY AREAS
Jack Grealish (age 29), our most exciting summer signing on loan from City, has taken no time to settle in. with four assists already, he’s playing with a smile and a freedom that has been absent for a prolonged period. I already can’t wait to watch him again.
Tyler Dibling (age 19) is another low-socked creative arrival, and our most expensive signing of summer. Despite his price tag, patience might be required, but there is unquestionable talent in those boots.
Likewise with Thierno Barry (age 22), our solitary singing in the striking department. Thierry Henry is a fan and he has La Liga experience with Villarreal. He’s yet to find the net, but his hold up play has been impressive, as has his link up play with the midfield. His arrival also allowed the lesser-spotted Youssef Chermiti to make a permanent switch to Rangers.
I would’ve liked another addition upfront, and a right back. However, this was a superb window overall. Moyes has made some excellent additions to the squad, massively improved the starting XI and shifted some deadwood. I like the youthfulness of most of the incoming players, as this is a squad that can grow together.
A solid transfer window and strong start to the season – so far, so good for David Moyes’ first full season back in charge.
