Everton are now mathematically safe from relegation and the club will already have one eye on next season.
David Moyes can now prepare for what’s expected to be a transformative summer and the recruitment team are thought to be drawing up a list of targets.
Everton are keeping close tabs on Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, whilst the likes of Chris Rigg and Maxime Esteve are being eyed.
Moyes has personally scouted Esteve in recent weeks as he could be in the market for a Jarrad Branthwaite replacement, with the Everton defender heavily linked with a move to Manchester United.
But now, the Everton manager has been dealt a fresh transfer blow by Leeds United, who may have scuppered his plans.
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty ImagesEverton now unlikely to sign Leeds United winger Wilfried Gnonto
Everton have a long-standing interest in Leeds’ Wilfried Gnonto and had a bid rejected for the talented wide player last summer.
The Toffees have been huge admirers of Gnonto since he first emerged on the scene in England two years ago.
Indeed, it was thought that the club could reignite their interest in the Italy international this summer, however, that potential deal now looks to be in ruins following Leeds United’s promotion.
The Whites secured promotion on Easter Monday after thumping Stoke City 6-0 at Elland Road, with Gnonto on the scoresheet, funnily enough.
So, considering Leeds’ Premier League status and newfound wealth, it’s highly unlikely they’d even discuss the possibility of sanctioning his sale this summer.
Everton could turn to West Brom’s Tom Fellows instead
With Gnonto off the cards, Everton could turn their attention to West Bromwich Albion winger Tom Fellows.
Moyes tried to sign Fellows in January and it was even reported at the time that personal terms were agreed.
However, ultimately the transfer failed to materialise on deadline day, so it wouldn’t at all be surprising if it was revisited when the window opens in June.
Fellows is the assist king in the Championship with no player laying on more goals than his 13.
Albion are set to miss out on the play-offs, so they’ll be plying their trade in the Championship again next season, which significantly weakens their negotiating powers.