- Everton reportedly linked to Stoke City and Wales winger Sorba Thomas.
- Thomas has represented Wales 23 times and has bagged 10 goals this season.
- The speedy left-winger has also has nine Championship assists to his name.
Everton have a few decisions to make on their left wing ahead of the summer. Tyrique George is only on loan from Chelsea and will head back to Stamford Bridge, and Jack Grealish is expected to return to Manchester City at the end of his loan.
A permanent deal looks unlikely given Grealish’s wages and the transfer fees, although the Toffees may explore a cut-price deal.
Dwight McNeil remains at the club, but his future is far from certain after a January move to Crystal Palace collapsed at the last minute.
So it makes sense that David Moyes and his recruitment team are already looking at options. One name that keeps coming up is Sorba Thomas at Stoke City.
What Sorba Thomas would bring to Everton
The 27-year-old Welsh international has been one of the few bright spots in a mixed season for the Potters. While Stoke have faded from play-off contention after a strong start, Thomas has kept producing.
Ten goals and nine assists in 38 Championship games is a decent return for a winger, especially one playing in a side that has won only two of their last 13 matches. His numbers in the final third stand out. He has created 16 big chances this season and averages two key passes per game.
Stoke boss Mark Robins called him “unbelievable” earlier in the season, and it is easy to see why. Thomas is quick, direct, and comfortable taking on defenders one-on-one. He can play on either flank, though he has mostly featured on the right for Stoke this term.
Why Everton are looking
Everton have a strong record of shopping in the Championship. The division has produced some of their best signings in recent years, and Thomas fits the profile of a player who could make the step up without breaking the bank.
There is also the question of what Everton’s squad will look like next season. If they secure European football, which is looking increasingly likely, they will need more depth across the pitch. Thomas would not necessarily walk into the starting XI, but he would add competition and a different type of threat out wide.
Stoke have him under contract for another two years, so they are not under immediate pressure to sell. But with Wales potentially heading to the World Cup this summer if they get through their play-off, Thomas’s profile could rise even further.
Everton are keeping a close eye on the situation, and if they like what they see, they might make their move before the tournament starts.
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