OPINION
With a new director of football in place and a different face in the dugout this summer, there may well be the expectation that Everton could see a complete overhaul of the playing squad.
The Toffees are changing things up at Goodison Park after what they deem to have been a disappointing display which, when the sort of money they spent last summer is considered, is a fair assessment.
Improvements are needed and that means dipping their toe into the transfer market, both in terms of buying new players as well as clearing out the deadwood – although that likely will not take place until a new manager is in place.
However, while the Toffees might be waiting patiently, other clubs will not, and it will be up to Marcel Brands and his team to decide what to do if offers come in.
They may well be called into action soon, with Fanatik reporting that Turkish giants Galatasaray are set to hold imminent negotiations over transfers over the coming week as they plot a swoop for Everton’s attacker Oumar Niasse.
It is claimed that the champions of Turkey, having picked up the Super Lig title, are ready to launch themselves into the transfer window after an election for president, and that June is set to be a busy month for the club with the nine-cap Senegal international said to among their targets.
However, what seems strange is that the report states the striker is unwanted by the Toffees despite featuring 25 times and scoring nine goals during the last campaign.
As an impact substitute, with 12 of his 22 league appearances coming off the bench, he proved himself, while he also showed good form in front of goal when in the starting XI.
Cenk Tosun’s arrival in January means he might have to settle for a place on the bench more often, but letting him go is a big mistake and leaves the Toffees with a gaping hole in their squad.
If Galatasaray do come along asking, then Everton must rebuff their advances, even if only until the new manager takes his seat.