Everton Eye €3.5m-A-Year Striker: Why Does He Make Sense For The Toffees? | OneFootball

Everton have made a brief enquiry for a 30-year-old free-agent striker Anthony Martial as David Moyes seeks attacking cover after a frustrating deadline day, according to Foot Mercato. Foot Mercato reported on September 7 that Everton briefly sounded out Anthony Martial about a return to the Premier League, although the contact has not developed into advanced negotiations.

The report says Martial has rejected offers from two Ligue 1 clubs because he wants the right project. His salary is a major hurdle. The report puts his annual wage demand at around €3.5m, while his Monterrey spell ended after just one goal and three assists in 20 appearances before the club and player parted company.

Everton need another striker after their attempt to bring in Folarin Balogun collapsed, leaving Moyes with limited natural cover for Thierno Barry. Martial offers an interesting free-agent option, but the figures and fitness record make it risky.

Why Martial makes sense for Everton

Everton’s interest makes sense because Martial offers qualities many late-market options don’t. The former Manchester United forward has 63 Premier League goals and 28 assists in 209 appearances, giving him proven top-flight experience.

More importantly, his skill set suits the job Moyes needs. Martial can receive the ball with his back to goal, carry it into space, combine with wide players and finish around the box. That matters because one injury could leave Everton without a natural central outlet and force Moyes to improvise.

Why the deal carries serious risk

MONTERREY, MEXICO – SEPTEMBER 27: Anthony Martial of Monterrey looks on during the 11th round match between Monterrey and Santos Laguna as part of the Torneo Apertura 2025 Liga MX at BBVA Stadium on September 27, 2025 in Monterrey, Mexico. (Photo by Azael Rodriguez/Getty Images)

There is a big catch.

Everton should look beyond Martial’s reputation and judge the risk. Transfermarkt records 12 games missed through injury in 2023/24, 26 in 2022/23 and 23 in 2020/21, with recurring muscle, hip, knee and Achilles problems across that period. He managed only 20 appearances for Monterrey in 2025/26, according to Foot Mercato.

A short deal with heavy appearance bonuses, goal incentives and a low guaranteed wage would protect the club while giving Martial a route back into English football. Paying €3.5m annually would make little sense for a player with a poor fitness record.

This gamble has merit for one reason. Martial’s movement between the lines adds variety, and his Premier League record proves he has produced here. Everton need depth behind Barry, and Martial would give Moyes a senior forward rather than another makeshift solution. That possibility works best provided the contract reflects the risk.