Everton are set for a transitional period this summer under Ronald Koeman, after an impressive first year in charge of the Toffees.
The former Southampton boss is yet to really put his stamp down on the squad at Goodison Park and he’ll have the opportunity to tinker his team more to his liking over summer.
Everton are also on course to qualify for the Europa League through their Premier League finishing position, which means extra games next season. That will enable them to attract players of a higher calibre.
Ross Barkley is being linked with a summer move away from the club with the England international still yet to put pen to paper on a new deal at Goodison.
As well as that, Koeman has an ageing Gareth Barry, as well as fringe players like Mo Besic to deal with, so we’ve identified five midfielders that Everton could target to bolster their ranks this summer.
Gylfi Sigurdsson
The Swansea playmaker has been linked with a move to Goodison Park recently.
It’s easy to see why as the Icelandic midfielder has been influential for the Swans this season. He could fit into the role potentially left by Barkley should the young English midfielder depart this summer.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
The England international has been linked with a summer exit from Arsenal in the search of regular first-team football.
The Arsenal midfielder has often been used in a deeper, more central role under Arsene Wenger and has impressed there recently.
He is likely to be the more costly option for Everton but would provide a youthful edge and energy in the middle of the park.
Roque Mesa
Mesa has been key for Las Palmas since their rise up into the Spanish top flight.
Expect there to be plenty of rumours surrounding his future in the summer, with the player already being linked with moves to the Premier League.
He’s a more defensive option for the Toffees and would add some steel to the midfield.
James Ward-Prowse
A player that Koeman is very familiar with from his time at Southampton.
During the time since Koeman has left the Saints, Ward-Prowse has come on leaps and bounds and now finds himself involved in the England first-team squad.
Southampton have fallen short in the Premier League this season and he may like the idea of European football next season.
Pedro Obiang
He’s been very consistent for West Ham prior to his latest injury and is attracting interest from clubs in the Premier League.
Qualifying for the Europa League may be enough to convince him to swap London for Everton.