In summary, Everton plan to prioritise loan deals for the rest of January despite being hit by Jack Grealish’s stress fracture, which will sideline him for at least 12 weeks. The injury is a major setback but hasn’t changed the club’s cautious transfer approach, with Everton unwilling to make big January signings that could limit their summer plans or affect PSR.
The club believe they have enough cover in Grealish’s position through Tyler Dibling, Iliman Ndiaye and Dwight McNeil, so a direct replacement is unlikely. January is still viewed internally as poor value, with Everton preferring a slow, controlled rebuild.
Their main focus remains on signing a right-back, most likely via a loan. Striker options have been explored but are seen as difficult mid-season. A move for Fenerbahce’s Youssef En-Nesyri is considered unlikely, while interest in Callum Wilson has faded after West Ham blocked his exit and Everton hesitated to guarantee him a starting role. Brooke Norton-Cuffy is available from Genoa but only on a permanent deal of around £17m, which Everton are reluctant to pursue.
Potential loan moves for Joshua Zirkzee or Kobbie Mainoo have cooled, and while there is Championship interest in Tim Iroegbunam, Everton intend to block any outgoing transfers.