Another day in the summer transfer window, another bewildering list of names being linked, linking themselves, or merely pulled out a random hat to sift through as Everton look to strengthen.
It is clear Frank Lampard wants news faces before the season kicks off again in August, and clear too, he needs them. Desperately. The question is, how much will he have to spend? The answer lies somewhere between not very much, and a significant amount if he can offload a lot of dead wood, and perhaps sell one of his prize assets.
Lampard particularly wants a central defender, that much is clear, because he indicated as much to reporters who spoke to him at the end of the season. He also wants to strengthen in midfield. The rest depends on departures, which is a fluid situation, partly dependent on the back Everton will receive this summer from their sponsors, who of course include Alisher Usmanov, the Russian Oligarch who is currently blacklisted by the UK government.
Here, we sift through all the chaff, and attempt to pull out some of the wheat from the latest rumours circulating. And of course, when there is real news, the Mirror will provide it.
Defender claims he is aware of Everton interest
One that seems interesting, is Rennes left-back Adrien Truffert, who is only 20, and therefore fits the description of players Lampard and his new director of football Kevin Thelwell are identifying, young players who can develop.
And he has been told of an Everton approach, it seems. The left back has made 79 appearances in the last two seasons for Rennes and already a France U21 international, so a decent player.
And he told RMC in France: “Yes, I knew about Everton and Ajax interest. Of course, it’s flattering to have clubs that are interested in you. “But honestly, the question today does not necessarily arise. I have a contract until 2025 with Stade Rennes. I will ask myself this question later, with my parents and my agents. My parents are very important. They are a strength.”
Midfielder could be up for grabs on season long loan
Another who fits the bill is Manchester United youngster James Garner, who could be made available on loan next season, with new boss Erik ten Hag set to look at his situation.
Garner helped Nottingham Forest to get promoted into the Premier League after an 18 month loan period, and he is local to Merseyside, born in Birkenhead.
The Athletic suggest a Premier League loan this time around could be suitable for all parties, and he certainly fits Everton bill at present: no fee apart from a small loan fee, and chance to assess him properly. No contact has yet been made though.
Major interest in one of Everton’s stars
It is inevitable The Blues’ best players will be linked with moves away, as the club assesses their financial situation, and today it is the turn of Richarlison.
He is currently away on international duty with Brazil, and scored in a friendly against South Korea, which makes the rumours in the Brazilian media interesting, with various reports.
They suggest Real Madrid want him, and with the Carlo Ancelotti link, that could just be more than speculation. A figure of £75m has been floated, and would certainly make Everton sit up and pay attention.
