# Read Everton: articles from the last 48 hours > The 14 newest articles published since 2026-10-18T20:00:00Z. ## Everton news: Tarkowski tops Premier League chart, Moyes makes Garner admission and Saha questions TFG - Page: [https://readeverton.com/everton-news-tarkowski-garner-saha-ferguson-icardi/](https://readeverton.com/everton-news-tarkowski-garner-saha-ferguson-icardi/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/everton-news-tarkowski-garner-saha-ferguson-icardi/index.md](https://readeverton.com/everton-news-tarkowski-garner-saha-ferguson-icardi/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-20T18:00:00Z; updated: 2026-10-20T18:00:00Z **James Tarkowski’s impressive start to the season, David Moyes’ assessment of James Garner and Louis Saha’s verdict on** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/)**‘s investment potential are among Tuesday’s main talking points.** There has also been a forthright verdict from Duncan Ferguson on Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s departure, while Everton have been named among several clubs reportedly interested in free-agent striker Mauro Icardi. Here is the latest Everton news from Tuesday. ### Tarkowski leads Premier League duel chart Tarkowski has won more duels than any other Premier League player this season, with Everton revealing that their captain has registered 57 across his opening seven appearances. The 33-year-old has played every available league minute, and his wider numbers are also impressive, including 39 clearances and 17 interceptions. His 57 successful duels put him 12 clear of the next highest centre-backs, Liverpool’s Jeremy Jacquet and Sunderland’s Dan Ballard. [Read the full story: James Tarkowski tops Premier League chart after impressive Everton start](https://readeverton.com/james-tarkowski-premier-league-duels-everton/) ### Moyes says Garner still has another level to find Moyes believes Garner remains “a little bit off” the level he reached last season despite the midfielder’s rapid recovery from summer hernia surgery and return to the England squad. Garner played all 38 Premier League matches last season, missing only six minutes, before being named Everton’s Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season. Moyes nevertheless stressed that the 25-year-old remains “hugely important” as Everton prepare to visit Arsenal on Saturday. [Read the full story: Moyes makes revealing James Garner admission ahead of Arsenal clash](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-james-garner-everton-admission-arsenal/) ### Saha questions timing of Everton investment process Former Everton striker Saha believes the club represent a “great investment opportunity” but admits he is surprised by the timing of The Friedkin Group’s decision to explore new investment. TFG is considering several options, including the potential sale of a controlling interest, less than two years after completing its takeover. Saha pointed to Everton’s new stadium, Premier League history, support and rivalry with Liverpool when explaining the club’s appeal, but described the timing of the process as “very strange”. [Read the full story: Louis Saha makes Everton investment claim as he questions Friedkin Group timing](https://readeverton.com/louis-saha-everton-investment-friedkin-group-timing/) ### Ferguson says Everton should never have let Calvert-Lewin leave Ferguson has delivered a typically emphatic assessment of Calvert-Lewin’s Everton exit, insisting the club should have found a way to keep the striker. Calvert-Lewin left when his contract expired in 2025 and has subsequently joined Leeds United, scoring five times in all competitions this season. Ferguson, who was appointed Glentoran manager on Monday, acknowledged that he did not know what happened behind the scenes but was unequivocal about how highly he rated his former player. [Read the full story: Duncan Ferguson makes emphatic Everton claim over Dominic Calvert-Lewin exit](https://readeverton.com/duncan-ferguson-everton-dominic-calvert-lewin-exit/) ### Everton linked with free-agent Icardi Everton have meanwhile been named among seven European clubs reportedly interested in former Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain striker Icardi. The 33-year-old is available as a free agent after leaving Galatasaray, where he scored 77 goals in 134 appearances. TyC Sports reports that Everton are among the clubs showing interest, although there has been no formal proposal and no indication of concrete negotiations. With Thierno Barry currently Moyes’ only recognised senior centre-forward, Everton’s reported interest is notable, but there is nothing yet to suggest a deal is close. [Read the full story: Everton named among seven European clubs interested in 77-goal free agent](https://readeverton.com/everton-mauro-icardi-free-agent-transfer-interest/) Everton’s attention will increasingly turn towards Saturday’s trip to Arsenal, when Moyes’ side will look to respond to their first Premier League defeat of the season. **For all the latest Everton news, transfer updates and analysis, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.** ## Louis Saha makes Everton investment claim as he questions Friedkin Group timing - Page: [https://readeverton.com/louis-saha-everton-investment-friedkin-group-timing/](https://readeverton.com/louis-saha-everton-investment-friedkin-group-timing/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/louis-saha-everton-investment-friedkin-group-timing/index.md](https://readeverton.com/louis-saha-everton-investment-friedkin-group-timing/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-20T15:14:17Z; updated: 2026-10-20T15:14:18Z **Former** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **striker Louis Saha believes the club represent a “great investment opportunity” but has questioned the timing of The Friedkin Group’s decision to explore new investment.** TFG announced earlier this month that it was considering a range of options, including the potential sale of a controlling interest in Everton. The process comes less than two years after the group completed its takeover from Farhad Moshiri in December 2024, with Moelis & Company appointed to advise TFG. Saha, who joined Everton from Manchester United in 2008 and spent more than three years at Goodison Park, believes the club should hold considerable appeal to potential investors. Speaking to the *Liverpool Echo*, he said: “Everton are a great investment opportunity. “It’s a great stadium, a great place to be in the Premier League. They’ve been there for many, many years, so it’s quite a stable club. There are so many aspects when you have such a fanbase and a rivalry that always attracts a lot of attention. So, there is definitely material there to think about in terms of investment.” ### Saha questions Everton ownership timing TFG completed its takeover in December 2024 with Everton facing significant financial challenges and has since overseen the club’s move to Hill Dickinson Stadium. In announcing the investment process, the group said it believed the foundations were now in place to consider Everton’s “next chapter”, adding that it would only entertain interest from parties it considered suitable to take the club forward. Saha nevertheless admitted he was surprised by the development. “The trajectory of any club in the Premier League could be an enormous opportunity,” he said. “But I still wonder about the reasons why this has happened; when you have such a position or a strong position, it’s very strange timing.” There is no guarantee the process will result in TFG relinquishing control of Everton, with the group considering different investment options while continuing to support the club. ***For all the latest Everton ownership developments, transfer news and team updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.*** ## Tarkowski tops Premier League chart after decent Everton start - Page: [https://readeverton.com/james-tarkowski-premier-league-duels-everton/](https://readeverton.com/james-tarkowski-premier-league-duels-everton/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/james-tarkowski-premier-league-duels-everton/index.md](https://readeverton.com/james-tarkowski-premier-league-duels-everton/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-20T13:18:36Z; updated: 2026-10-20T13:18:37Z **James Tarkowski has underlined his importance to** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **by winning more duels than any other Premier League player this season.** Everton highlighted their captain’s numbers on Tuesday, revealing that Tarkowski has won 57 duels during the opening seven league matches of the campaign. The 33-year-old has been an ever-present at the heart of David Moyes’ defence, starting every Premier League game and playing all 630 available minutes. Tarkowski has also contributed at the other end of the pitch, recording one goal and one assist as Everton have taken 10 points from their opening seven matches. ### Tarkowski sets the standard for Everton The duel statistic is supported by Tarkowski’s wider defensive numbers. He has made 39 clearances and 17 interceptions in the Premier League this season, while winning 11 of his 14 attempted tackles. His 57 successful duels put him 12 clear of the next highest centre-backs in the division, with Liverpool’s Jeremy Jacquet and Sunderland’s Dan Ballard both on 45. Tarkowski’s durability has long been one of his defining qualities. Since joining Everton from Burnley in 2022, he has made 153 league appearances for the club and has rarely been absent from the side. He has also taken on greater responsibility this season after being named Everton’s club captain following Seamus Coleman’s departure. The latest numbers suggest that responsibility has done little to diminish his effectiveness. Tarkowski remains a major part of a defence which has kept three clean sheets in seven league matches and suffered its first defeat of the campaign against Chelsea on Saturday. Everton now face another significant test when they travel to Arsenal this weekend, with Tarkowski likely to be central to their attempts to respond at the Emirates Stadium. ***For all the latest Everton news, team news and transfer updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.*** ## Moyes makes revealing James Garner admission ahead of Arsenal clash - Page: [https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-james-garner-everton-admission-arsenal/](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-james-garner-everton-admission-arsenal/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-james-garner-everton-admission-arsenal/index.md](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-james-garner-everton-admission-arsenal/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-20T10:53:44Z; updated: 2026-10-20T10:53:44Z **David Moyes has admitted James Garner remains “a little bit off” his best level for** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/)**, despite the midfielder pushing through an interrupted start to the season and back into the England squad.** Garner has remained a central figure in Moyes’ side after undergoing hernia surgery during the summer, an operation which disrupted his preparations for the new campaign. The 25-year-old made a notably quick recovery and has since worked his way back into the England picture. Moyes, however, believes there is still more to come from a player who set exceptionally high standards last season. Asked whether Everton were still having to manage Garner’s recovery, Moyes said: “No, we have managed it, but Jimmy has pushed on really hard and got himself into the England squad. “But he’s still got a little bit to go to get his best levels which he showed last year. “So, we’re hoping that he gets back to that. He’s still a little bit off it, but we want to keep pushing him and he’s a hugely important player for us.” ### Garner still searching for last season’s level Moyes’ assessment is notable given Garner’s importance to Everton. He played all 38 Premier League games last season, missing only six minutes across the campaign, and was subsequently named the club’s Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season. His performances also earned senior England recognition, underlining his development into one of Everton’s most dependable players. Moyes had already acknowledged earlier this season that Garner was still working towards full fitness after returning quickly from his operation. His latest comments therefore point to an ongoing process rather than a fresh injury concern. Garner nevertheless remains firmly in the manager’s plans. He played the full 90 minutes in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat by Chelsea and has featured in every Premier League game this season. With Everton travelling to Arsenal on Saturday, Moyes will hope one of his key midfielders can continue closing the gap between his current level and the form which made him such an influential figure last season. **For all the latest Everton news, team news and transfer updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.** **SEO title:** David Moyes makes revealing James Garner Everton admission ## Duncan Ferguson makes emphatic Everton claim over Dominic Calvert-Lewin exit - Page: [https://readeverton.com/duncan-ferguson-everton-dominic-calvert-lewin-exit/](https://readeverton.com/duncan-ferguson-everton-dominic-calvert-lewin-exit/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/duncan-ferguson-everton-dominic-calvert-lewin-exit/index.md](https://readeverton.com/duncan-ferguson-everton-dominic-calvert-lewin-exit/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-20T08:30:42Z; updated: 2026-10-20T08:30:42Z **Duncan Ferguson believes** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **should never have allowed Dominic Calvert-Lewin to leave the club, insisting he would have gone to considerable lengths to keep the striker at the club.** Ferguson, who was confirmed as the new manager of Glentoran on a multi-year contract on Monday, remains closely associated with Everton after two spells as a player and more than a decade on the club’s coaching staff. Calvert-Lewin ended his nine-year stay with Everton when his contract expired in the summer of 2025 before joining Leeds United on a free transfer. The 29-year-old has since rediscovered his goalscoring touch at Elland Road and underlined his improved form with the equaliser in Sunday’s 1-1 Premier League draw against Manchester United. He has scored five times in all competitions this season. Ferguson, who worked closely with Calvert-Lewin during his time on Everton’s coaching staff, remains adamant that his former club should have found a way to keep him. Speaking on The Overlap Daily, Ferguson said: “They should’ve never let Dominic go. “I’ve coached Dominic from a young man; I’ve put him in my team. He scored his first two ever in the same game against Chelsea; I put him up front. “He’s a great player. They should never have let him go, ever.” ### Ferguson makes £200,000-a-week point Ferguson acknowledged that he did not know the details of the negotiations which preceded Calvert-Lewin’s departure, but made his feelings clear about how highly he rated the striker. “You should never have let him go,” he added. “But obviously I don’t know what’s happened behind the scenes. If he wanted £200,000 a week, give him £200,000 a week. If he wanted £100,000 a week, give it to him.” The figures were hypothetical rather than a claim about what Calvert-Lewin actually requested, but Ferguson’s wider point was unequivocal. His comments also have added relevance given Everton’s current options. Thierno Barry is David Moyes’ only recognised senior centre-forward following Beto’s departure, with the Frenchman scoring three times in Everton’s opening seven Premier League matches. Calvert-Lewin’s exit can inevitably be viewed differently with the benefit of hindsight, particularly given his subsequent form at Leeds. Ferguson, now beginning the latest chapter of his own career with Glentoran, appears to have had few doubts about the qualities Everton were losing. ***For all the latest Everton news, opinion and transfer updates, visit our [Everton news page](https://readeverton.com/news/).*** ## Everton named among seven European clubs interested in 77-goal free agent - Page: [https://readeverton.com/everton-mauro-icardi-free-agent-transfer-interest/](https://readeverton.com/everton-mauro-icardi-free-agent-transfer-interest/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/everton-mauro-icardi-free-agent-transfer-interest/index.md](https://readeverton.com/everton-mauro-icardi-free-agent-transfer-interest/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-20T06:21:26Z; updated: 2026-10-20T06:21:27Z [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **have reportedly been named among seven European clubs interested in signing free-agent striker Mauro Icardi.** The former Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain forward has been without a club since leaving Galatasaray following the expiry of his contract in the summer, but speculation over his future has continued. According to [TyC Sports](https://www.tycsports.com/futbol-internacional/los-siete-clubes-europeos-que-pretenden-a-mauro-icardi-puede-revitalizar-su-carrera-id767185.html), Everton are among seven European sides showing interest in the 33-year-old, alongside Tottenham, PAOK, Elche, Real Betis, Besiktas and Benfica. Brazilian clubs Atletico Mineiro and Sao Paulo have also been linked. The report adds an important qualification, however: Icardi has yet to receive a formal proposal and the various approaches surrounding him have not developed into concrete negotiations. ### Icardi again linked with Everton Everton’s inclusion is not entirely new. Icardi has previously been linked with a move to Merseyside, with earlier reports suggesting his availability had been brought to the club’s attention. The latest update nevertheless comes at a time when David Moyes has limited established options at centre-forward. Thierno Barry is Everton’s only recognised senior striker following Beto’s departure for Fiorentina. Icardi would bring considerable experience and an established scoring record. The Argentina international left Galatasaray having scored 77 goals in 134 appearances across four seasons in Turkey. There is, though, a clear difference between reported interest and Everton attempting to complete a deal. TyC Sports does not report that the Blues have made an offer or entered negotiations with Icardi, while the number of clubs being linked underlines the uncertainty surrounding his next move. For now, Everton can be placed among his reported suitors rather than at the head of the queue (as ever). ***For all the latest Everton transfer news and updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.*** ## Everton news: Pearce makes Europe claim, Moyes contract latest and January transfer plans - Page: [https://readeverton.com/everton-news-pearce-moyes-contract-january-transfers/](https://readeverton.com/everton-news-pearce-moyes-contract-january-transfers/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/everton-news-pearce-moyes-contract-january-transfers/index.md](https://readeverton.com/everton-news-pearce-moyes-contract-january-transfers/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-19T18:00:00Z; updated: 2026-10-19T18:00:00Z **Stuart Pearce’s eye-catching verdict on** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/)**, fresh developments over David Moyes’ future and the club’s January transfer plans have provided plenty of talking points on Monday.** Saturday’s 2-0 defeat by Chelsea remains part of the discussion, particularly over Moyes’ use of his squad, but Everton’s longer-term ambitions have also come into focus. Here is the latest from Read Everton. ### Pearce: Everton are a striker away from Europe Perhaps the strongest claim of the day came from Stuart Pearce, who believes Everton are only a striker away from possessing a side capable of qualifying for European football. Pearce was part of talkSPORT’s commentary team for the Chelsea game, and his assessment puts the focus firmly on Everton’s options at centre-forward. Thierno Barry has scored three Premier League goals this season but remains Moyes’ only recognised senior striker following Beto’s departure. [**Read the full story: Stuart Pearce makes bold Everton European claim but identifies one missing piece**](https://readeverton.com/stuart-pearce-everton-striker-european-football-claim/) ### Everton still planning for January That striker question also features prominently in Everton’s reported plans for the January transfer window. Despite uncertainty surrounding The Friedkin Group’s future, Everton reportedly intend to strengthen Moyes’ squad if the current ownership remains in place. A centre-forward is said to be a priority, with Esteban Lepaul and Dion Beljo among those being monitored. There is no indication that an offer has been made for either player, but the report suggests Everton’s recruitment work is continuing despite events at ownership level. [**Read the full story: Everton January transfer stance emerges despite ownership uncertainty**](https://readeverton.com/everton-january-transfer-plans-ownership-uncertainty/) ### Moyes contract talks reportedly delayed The ownership uncertainty could have implications for Moyes himself. The Everton manager is in the final year of his contract and revealed last week that discussions over an extension had reached “a bit of a lull”. It has since been reported that TFG’s exploration of a potential sale of its controlling interest has delayed a decision over his future. There has been no confirmation that negotiations have ended and Moyes has stressed that his immediate priority is continuing Everton’s progress. [**Read the full story: Moyes contract talks hit new Everton obstacle amid ownership uncertainty**](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-everton-contract-talks-ownership-delay/) ### Chelsea defeat leaves questions for Moyes Saturday’s defeat has meanwhile prompted debate over Everton’s squad depth and Moyes’ use of the options available to him. Everton correspondent Patrick Boyland pointed to the size of the squad as important context but also highlighted “self-inflicted wounds” in the performance against Chelsea. Moyes waited until the 85th minute to introduce Brennan Johnson and Christian Norgaard, while several attacking and midfield options remained unused. [**Read the full story: Everton handed reality check after Chelsea defeat as Moyes’ decisions questioned**](https://readeverton.com/everton-chelsea-reality-check-david-moyes-decisions/) One of those unused players was Hayden Hackney. The summer signing remained on the bench as Everton searched for a response after Pedro Neto put Chelsea ahead, despite having featured in six of the club’s opening seven league matches. It does not follow that Hackney’s introduction would have changed the result, but the decision has provided another selection talking point for Moyes. [**Read the full story: Moyes decision questioned after Everton summer signing overlooked against Chelsea**](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-hayden-hackney-everton-chelsea-decision/) ### Rohl gives Moyes another right-back option There could also be a decision to make at right-back before Saturday’s trip to Arsenal. Ainsley Maitland-Niles was withdrawn after 55 minutes against Chelsea, with Merlin Rohl moving into his position. Moyes subsequently said the German “probably did better” at right-back and highlighted the quality of two crosses he delivered during the second half. [**Read the full story: Maitland-Niles faces Everton selection threat after Chelsea defeat**](https://readeverton.com/ainsley-maitland-niles-everton-selection-threat-merlin-rohl/) Rohl’s versatility has become increasingly useful to Moyes. He started further forward against Chelsea for tactical reasons before switching positions and has now been used in several roles since arriving at Everton. [**Read the full story: Moyes makes telling Merlin Rohl admission after Everton tactical switch**](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-merlin-rohl-everton-versatility-chelsea/) Everton now turn their attention towards Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday. Moyes’ side have 10 points from seven Premier League games and will be looking for an immediate response after their unbeaten league start was ended by Chelsea. ***For all the latest Everton news, transfer updates and analysis, visit our [Everton news page](https://readeverton.com/news/).*** ## Pearce makes bold Everton European claim but identifies one missing piece - Page: [https://readeverton.com/stuart-pearce-everton-striker-european-football-claim/](https://readeverton.com/stuart-pearce-everton-striker-european-football-claim/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/stuart-pearce-everton-striker-european-football-claim/index.md](https://readeverton.com/stuart-pearce-everton-striker-european-football-claim/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-19T14:31:03Z; updated: 2026-10-19T15:10:05Z **Stuart Pearce believes** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **are only a striker away from having a side capable of qualifying for European football under David Moyes.** The former England captain was part of talkSPORT’s commentary team at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday as Everton suffered their first Premier League defeat of the season, losing 2-0 to Chelsea after two second-half goals from Pedro Neto. Despite that setback, Pearce has been encouraged by what he has seen from Moyes’ side and believes one addition in particular could transform their prospects. [TalkSPORT](https://talksport.com/) reported Pearce’s verdict on Monday: Everton are a striker away from qualifying for European football. ### Stuart Pearce identifies Everton’s missing piece Centre-forward is already one of the obvious areas for Everton to consider strengthening. Thierno Barry remains Moyes’ only recognised senior striker following Beto’s departure for Fiorentina and has scored three Premier League goals this season. The 23-year-old also passed up Everton’s clearest opportunity against Chelsea, heading wide during the first half with the game still goalless. Moyes subsequently admitted his side had not created enough, but the lack of an established alternative to Barry also limits the manager’s options when Everton need to change a game. Pearce’s assessment is nevertheless an encouraging one. Everton have 10 points from their opening seven Premier League matches and Saturday was their first league defeat of the campaign, suggesting the former England international sees the foundations of a side capable of competing higher up the table. There is uncertainty over how much scope Moyes will have to strengthen in January. Pearce has separately expressed concern about Everton’s ownership situation and its potential impact on the window, while arguing that the club needs to “kick on” after establishing greater stability. That makes the striker question particularly significant. Pearce believes Everton are already close to possessing a side capable of challenging for Europe; whether Moyes is allowed to add the forward he feels they need could help determine how realistic that ambition becomes. **For all the latest Everton transfer news, analysis and updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.** ## Moyes decision questioned after Everton summer signing overlooked against Chelsea - Page: [https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-hayden-hackney-everton-chelsea-decision/](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-hayden-hackney-everton-chelsea-decision/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-hayden-hackney-everton-chelsea-decision/index.md](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-hayden-hackney-everton-chelsea-decision/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-19T13:13:05Z; updated: 2026-10-19T13:13:06Z **David Moyes’ decision to leave summer signing Hayden Hackney on the bench has come under scrutiny after** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **struggled to find a response during Saturday’s 2-0 defeat by Chelsea.** Everton suffered their first Premier League loss of the season after Pedro Neto scored twice in the second half at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Moyes’ side had competed well before the interval but fell behind within a minute of the restart and created little thereafter, with the manager admitting they “didn’t offer enough” going forward. Moyes responded by introducing Tyrique George for Ainsley Maitland-Niles after 55 minutes, with Merlin Rohl dropping to right-back. Brennan Johnson and Christian Norgaard were then sent on with five minutes remaining, but Hackney was among six substitutes who remained unused. ### Hayden Hackney overlooked by Everton Writing in [The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/19/premier-league-10-talking-points-from-the-weekends-action), Everton correspondent Andy Hunter questioned the response after Neto’s opener and highlighted Moyes’ use of his bench, including the decision to turn to Norgaard rather than Hackney. That decision is particularly notable given Everton’s investment in the 24-year-old during the summer. Hackney arrived from Middlesbrough in a deal that could reportedly rise to £25million after being named Championship Player of the Season, with Moyes saying at the time that he would provide greater competition in midfield. Hackney has subsequently found regular Premier League starts difficult to come by, with James Garner, Harrison Armstrong and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall establishing themselves in Moyes’ midfield. There is no guarantee his introduction would have altered Saturday’s outcome. Chelsea were increasingly comfortable after taking the lead, and Everton struggled collectively to create the chances required to force their way back into the contest. But with Moyes searching for a response, leaving one of the club’s significant summer investments on the bench has provided another selection talking point before Saturday’s trip to Arsenal. **For all the latest Everton news, analysis and updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.** ## Everton January transfer stance emerges despite ownership uncertainty - Page: [https://readeverton.com/everton-january-transfer-plans-ownership-uncertainty/](https://readeverton.com/everton-january-transfer-plans-ownership-uncertainty/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/everton-january-transfer-plans-ownership-uncertainty/index.md](https://readeverton.com/everton-january-transfer-plans-ownership-uncertainty/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-19T11:17:35Z; updated: 2026-10-19T11:17:36Z [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **reportedly intend to strengthen David Moyes’ squad in January despite the uncertainty surrounding The Friedkin Group’s future at the club.** TFG are exploring new investment options, including the potential sale of their controlling interest, placing another layer of uncertainty over Everton’s longer-term plans. However, [TEAMtalk](https://www.teamtalk.com/everton/two-everton-striker-targets-revealed-as-david-moyes-eyes-crucial-january-signing) reports that the current owners remain prepared to invest in the squad if a change of control has not taken place before the January transfer window. A new centre-forward is said to be a priority, with Rennes striker Esteban Lepaul and Dinamo Zagreb’s Dion Beljo among the players being monitored. ### Everton striker search continues Neither name is new to Everton’s radar. We previously included Lepaul and Beljo among [four strikers linked with the Blues ahead of January](https://readeverton.com/everton-january-striker-targets-lepaul-beljo-kofane-lonergan/), but the latest report provides a further indication that plans to reinforce Moyes’ squad are continuing despite the situation at ownership level. Everton were left short of options up front after Beto joined Fiorentina on deadline day and a proposed £40million move for Folarin Balogun collapsed. Thierno Barry is now Moyes’ only recognised senior centre-forward, although Brennan Johnson and Tyrique George can provide alternatives if required. TEAMtalk says Everton’s interest in Lepaul is currently stronger than that of several Premier League rivals. The 26-year-old has scored 24 goals in 42 appearances for Rennes, while Croatia international Beljo has also attracted interest after an impressive run for Dinamo Zagreb. There is no indication that Everton have submitted an offer for either player or that negotiations are under way. With more than two months until the window opens, the identity of their eventual target could yet change. The more significant development is the reported intention to address a clear weakness in Moyes’ squad. Everton’s ownership situation remains unresolved, but recruitment work for January appears to be continuing in the meantime. ***For all the latest Everton transfer news and updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.*** ## Everton handed reality check after Chelsea defeat as Moyes’ decisions questioned - Page: [https://readeverton.com/everton-chelsea-reality-check-david-moyes-decisions/](https://readeverton.com/everton-chelsea-reality-check-david-moyes-decisions/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/everton-chelsea-reality-check-david-moyes-decisions/index.md](https://readeverton.com/everton-chelsea-reality-check-david-moyes-decisions/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-19T10:30:00Z; updated: 2026-10-19T10:30:00Z [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **suffered their first Premier League defeat of the season against Chelsea on Saturday, but the 2-0 loss also provided a reminder of the limitations David Moyes is working with.** The Blues had gone unbeaten through their opening six league matches before Pedro Neto’s second-half double ended that run at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Everton had competed well before the interval, but Neto struck within a minute of the restart, and Moyes’ side struggled to trouble Chelsea once they fell behind. Everton correspondent [Patrick Boyland](https://x.com/Paddy_Boyland/status/2112091290493968565) has offered some useful perspective on the defeat, pointing to the size of the squad available to Moyes. Boyland noted that Everton have the Premier League’s smallest squad and argued that “bumps in the road” are inevitable, describing that lack of depth as a legacy of the summer transfer window. ### Everton’s small squad offers context – but not an excuse Boyland also made clear that Saturday was not simply about resources. He pointed to “self-inflicted wounds” against Chelsea, both in Everton’s approach and their use of the bench, adding that they were too easy to keep at arm’s length after Neto’s opener. There were options available to Moyes. Tyrique George replaced Ainsley Maitland-Niles after 55 minutes, but Brennan Johnson and Christian Norgaard were not introduced until the 85th. Tyler Dibling, Hayden Hackney and Charly Alcaraz were among those left unused as Everton searched for a route back into the game. The wider picture is still worth keeping in context. Everton have 10 points from seven Premier League matches, and Chelsea inflicted their first defeat. A small squad will inevitably leave Moyes with less room to manoeuvre than many of his counterparts as the season develops. Saturday, though, showed that the two issues can coexist. Everton’s lack of depth leaves little margin for error, but when games begin to turn against them, Moyes will also need to extract more from the options he does have. ***For all the latest Everton news, analysis and updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.*** ## Moyes contract talks hit new Everton obstacle amid ownership uncertainty - Page: [https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-everton-contract-talks-ownership-delay/](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-everton-contract-talks-ownership-delay/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-everton-contract-talks-ownership-delay/index.md](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-everton-contract-talks-ownership-delay/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-19T09:25:56Z; updated: 2026-10-19T09:25:56Z **David Moyes’ contract situation at** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **has reportedly been complicated by the uncertainty surrounding The Friedkin Group’s plans for the club.** Moyes is in the final year of his deal at the Hill Dickinson and confirmed last week that discussions over an extension had slowed. The Scot said there had been “plenty of talks” during the summer but admitted there was now “a bit of a lull” as Everton deal with renewed uncertainty off the pitch. [Football Insider](https://www.footballinsider247.com/everton/david-moyes-edges-closer-to-everton-exit-after-new-twist#pip-widget) has now reported that TFG’s decision to explore a potential sale of its controlling interest has delayed a decision over Moyes’ future. Transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke said the situation had created uncertainty with the manager’s existing contract due to expire next summer. ### David Moyes talks reportedly delayed “It seems that any talks over his future will probably be delayed with the owners looking to sell, so we will wait and see what happens there,” O’Rourke said. He also suggested Moyes would attract interest from elsewhere if he became available, having rebuilt his reputation during his second spell at Everton. The report goes further than Moyes himself has publicly done by suggesting he could leave when his contract expires. There has been no confirmation from Everton that negotiations have ended, while Moyes stressed on Friday that resolving his own future was not his immediate priority. “I just want to keep trying to drive Everton on and build them up, and see if we can continue to improve,” he said. Moyes returned to Everton in January 2025 and has helped restore stability on the pitch, with Saturday’s 2-0 defeat by Chelsea their first Premier League loss of the season. His contract situation nevertheless provides another issue to resolve at a time when TFG are considering Everton’s longer-term ownership. For now, talks appear to have slowed rather than stopped. Whether they resume may depend on how Everton’s ownership situation develops over the coming months. ***For all the latest Everton news, analysis and updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.*** ## Maitland-Niles faces Everton selection threat after Chelsea defeat - Page: [https://readeverton.com/ainsley-maitland-niles-everton-selection-threat-merlin-rohl/](https://readeverton.com/ainsley-maitland-niles-everton-selection-threat-merlin-rohl/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/ainsley-maitland-niles-everton-selection-threat-merlin-rohl/index.md](https://readeverton.com/ainsley-maitland-niles-everton-selection-threat-merlin-rohl/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-19T07:40:04Z; updated: 2026-10-19T07:40:05Z **Ainsley Maitland-Niles could be facing fresh competition for his place at** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **after a difficult afternoon in the 2-0 defeat to Chelsea.** The summer signing started at right-back on Saturday but was withdrawn after 55 minutes, shortly after Pedro Neto had given Chelsea the lead. Jorrel Hato had escaped Maitland-Niles before supplying the cross which eventually led to Neto scoring just 44 seconds after the restart. Maitland-Niles has produced some important attacking moments since his £4m move from Lyon, most notably his dramatic equaliser against Manchester United and an assist for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall at Hull City. However, the [Liverpool Echo](https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/everton-issue-remain-after-david-34782656) has now questioned whether his starting position is secure after highlighting defensive mistakes against United, Hull and Chelsea. ### Merlin Rohl provides Everton competition Merlin Rohl could provide the most immediate alternative. The German started further forward against Chelsea but moved to right-back when Tyrique George replaced Maitland-Niles, having already occupied the position during pre-season and Everton’s opening four matches of the campaign. David Moyes also praised Rohl’s contribution after making that switch, saying he “probably did better” at right-back and highlighting two dangerous crosses he delivered during the second half. That does not necessarily mean Maitland-Niles will lose his place. He remains Everton’s only recognised senior right-back and has started their past four Premier League games, but Rohl’s versatility gives Moyes a genuine alternative if he decides a change is required. The timing adds another subplot, with Everton travelling to Arsenal on Saturday. Maitland-Niles joined the Gunners aged six and made 132 senior appearances before leaving permanently in 2023, meaning a return to his former club could now come with added competition for his starting place. ***For all the latest Everton news, analysis and updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.*** ## Moyes makes telling Merlin Rohl admission after Everton tactical switch - Page: [https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-merlin-rohl-everton-versatility-chelsea/](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-merlin-rohl-everton-versatility-chelsea/) - Markdown: [https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-merlin-rohl-everton-versatility-chelsea/index.md](https://readeverton.com/david-moyes-merlin-rohl-everton-versatility-chelsea/index.md) - Published: 2026-10-19T06:35:35Z; updated: 2026-10-19T06:36:56Z **David Moyes has offered another insight into Merlin Rohl’s growing importance at** [**Everton**](https://readeverton.com/) **after using the German in two different roles against Chelsea.** Rohl was preferred to Brennan Johnson and Tyrique George on the right for Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at the Hill Dickinson before later switching to right-back. Moyes has since explained that the original decision was partly tactical, with Everton expecting Pep Chavarria to start on Chelsea’s left. “We actually expected Pep Chavarria to play at left-back for Chelsea,” Moyes [told the Liverpool Echo](https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/everton-boss-david-moyes-admits-34778669). “We thought that with his attacking work and what was required, the person who we thought would be best to work against him would be Merlin Rohl in that position.” Chavarria was ultimately left out of Chelsea’s squad, with Jorrel Hato starting instead, but the change did not make Rohl redundant to Moyes’ plans. ### Rohl gives Moyes another Everton option When Tyrique George replaced Ainsley Maitland-Niles early in the second half, Rohl dropped to right-back – and Moyes felt the 24-year-old improved after the switch. “Merlin has played wide right, he’s played right-back, so he’s done both roles for us,” Moyes said. “I thought he probably did better when he actually went to right-back because he put in a couple of really good crosses for me in the second half.” That versatility could prove increasingly useful to Everton. Rohl has already been used at right-back this season despite being primarily a midfielder, while the Chelsea game showed Moyes is also prepared to deploy him further forward when the tactical demands are there. Everton ultimately lost their unbeaten Premier League record as Pedro Neto scored twice after the interval, but Rohl’s role provided another glimpse of how Moyes intends to use him. Rather than being tied to one position, the Germany international is increasingly emerging as a utility man alongside Jimmy Garner. ***For all the latest Everton news, analysis and updates, visit our** [**Everton news page**](https://readeverton.com/news/)**.***