Everton have yet to make any signings this summer, but a host of players have been linked with a move to Goodison Park. After pushing for a European place for much of last season and sitting just three points off a Champions League spot following a 3-0 victory over Chelsea on March 21, the Blues failed to win any of their last seven matches and slumped to 13th. Manager David Moyes is determined to improve the squad, but with so many reported targets, the ECHO's Royal Blue podcast segment 'Sign or swerve' offers verdicts on 10 potential recruits.
Raoul Bellanova (Atalanta, right-back)
Everton desperately need a right-back—likely two—but the 26-year-old Italy international may not be the answer. While attack-minded and capped at international level, his age and potential price tag (Atalanta paid €25 million less than two years ago) raise concerns about adapting to the Premier League. Verdict: Swerve.
Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United, right wing)
A proven top-class performer at 29, Bowen is a good dressing-room presence and was given his Premier League break by David Moyes. However, he will not lack suitors, and it is hard to see Everton winning the race. Verdict: Sign.
Liam Delap (Chelsea, striker)
The 23-year-old, likened to Sam Eagle from the Muppets, divides opinion among Evertonians. Moyes wanted him last summer, but Delap chose Chelsea. He performed well for relegated Ipswich but struggled at Chelsea. Verdict: Sign.
Guela Doue (Strasbourg, right-back)
Doue, 23, has been scouted extensively and provided seven assists last season. Moyes watched him in Ivory Coast's win over Scotland. However, his reputed £40 million price tag is beyond Everton's range. Verdict: Sign, but not for that fee.
Karl Etta Eyong (Levante, striker)
The 22-year-old Cameroon international is a recent link, but his numbers are unimpressive. After being sold by Villarreal, he scored just six La Liga goals for Levante. Verdict: Swerve.
Hayden Hackney (Middlesbrough, midfielder)
The Championship Player of the Season, 23, could restore the feel-good factor at Hill Dickinson Stadium. With one year left on his deal, he fancies a move to the Mersey. Verdict: Sign.
Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal, striker)
The 29-year-old Brazil international has been dogged by injuries and lacks the hunger of his younger self. Paying marquee prices for a struggling player is risky. Verdict: Swerve.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (West Ham United, right-back)
Wan-Bissaka, 28, flattered to deceive at Manchester United after a £45 million move. West Ham want to offload him after relegation, so a bargain fee is possible. Verdict: Sign, if not the only option.
Harry Wilson (Fulham, right winger)
The 29-year-old Wales international is out of contract and available on a free transfer. However, he lacks pace, and Everton need speed. Verdict: Swerve.
Edon Zhegrova (Juventus, right winger)
The 27-year-old Kosovo international looked good at Lille but flopped in Serie A, failing to score a single goal last season. Everton have had similar experiences with players like Jesper Lindstrom. Verdict: Swerve.
