Report: Everton could dip into free market amid injury woes | OneFootball

Everton’s Injury Dilemma and Transfer Decisions

Everton’s promising start to the Premier League season is being tested, as reported by Football Insider, with injuries at full-back leaving David Moyes short of options. “Everton will be forced into the free transfer market if they get any more injuries at full-back, sources have told Football Insider.” Vitalii Mykolenko’s injury has amplified the issue, with both flanks looking stretched.

Jake O’Brien and James Garner have stepped in admirably, producing solid performances despite being deployed out of position. As one Goodison Park insider put it, “they have put in a number of good performances despite being out of position,” which has given Everton a platform to sit sixth in the table.

Fixture List Presents Early Test

Everton’s opening four games have delivered seven points, thanks to standout displays from Manchester City loanee Jack Grealish and new signing Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. The challenge ramps up now as Moyes’ side face Liverpool, Man City, and Tottenham in their next five league matches. The Toffees have benefited from what was seen as a relatively favourable start, so this run could define the trajectory of their campaign.

Grealish Future Becomes Priority

“Everton are reportedly planning to hold talks with Man City over the future of Grealish as plans are already being put in place to make his loan permanent.” According to Mick Brown, the former Man United and Blackburn chief scout, the club hope to negotiate a cut-price fee for the winger. While a £50 million option to buy is in place, it is “currently considered unlikely for the Toffees to complete a deal at that price.” Football Insider revealed on 26 August that Grealish would need to take a pay cut to make the move happen, something he is now prepared to do.

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Depth Could Decide Season

If further injuries or suspensions strike, Everton’s push for Europe could depend on swift moves in the free-agent market. Moyes may have little choice but to act quickly if the club wish to keep pace with the top six.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Everton supporters will feel a mix of excitement and concern reading this update. On the one hand, sitting sixth after four matches is a terrific start, driven by the impact of Grealish and Dewsbury-Hall. Fans will love hearing that “plans are already being put in place to make his loan permanent,” because his quality has added a new dimension to their attack.

However, the thinness of the squad, especially at full-back, is a major worry. Supporters know how punishing the Premier League schedule can be, and upcoming clashes with Liverpool, City, and Spurs could easily turn momentum. Many will be anxious about the £50 million fee for Grealish, believing a compromise deal must be struck if he is to remain.

This is the kind of scenario where Everton fans expect Moyes to show his nous in the market, using free transfers cleverly to avoid a drop-off. There is optimism about competing for a European place, but also scepticism about whether this squad has the depth to sustain a challenge across a full season. The next month could shape their ambitions for 2025.