Seven Everton first-team players have now entered the final 12 months of their contracts, a list that includes Beto, Michael Keane, and others who made significant contributions last season. The start of July marked the new football financial year, triggering the countdown on deals for several squad members.
Contract Situations Under the Friedkin Group
As Everton embarks on the second summer of its squad rebuild under the Friedkin Group, club chiefs must decide whether to offer new contracts or listen to offers for players who could leave for free next year. David Moyes, himself in the final year of his contract, may benefit from any sales to boost his transfer budget.
Beto has attracted interest throughout his turbulent Everton career. The Guinea-Bissau forward scored nine Premier League goals in the second half of the season, kickstarted by a stoppage-time equaliser at Brighton. Moyes is open to improving his attack but recognises the tough market, believing the 17 league goals from Beto and Thierno Barry provide a foundation. RB Leipzig has enquired about Barry, viewing his potential as high. Everton would only sell one of the pair if a replacement is lined up.
McNeil, Iroegbunam, and Alcaraz Face Uncertain Futures
Dwight McNeil's future is uncertain after a January move to Crystal Palace collapsed in the final minutes of the window. The 26-year-old had a run in the team after that, including a 3-2 win at Newcastle, but lost his place to Merlin Rohl. He heads into what could be his last year at Everton.
Tim Iroegbunam enhanced his reputation last season, fighting back from a tough game against Newcastle to become Moyes' go-to backup midfielder. The 23-year-old impressed against Manchester United, Arsenal, and Manchester City, earning player of the match in the latter. Ipswich Town and Hull City have been linked with interest, and the signing of Hayden Hackney could reduce his opportunities.
Carlos Alcaraz was used sparingly by Moyes despite match-winning qualities shown on loan from Flamengo. Everton made his move permanent with an unusually short two-year deal, but the club holds an option to extend. Given Moyes' trust in Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Alcaraz may be available for serious offers.
Patterson, Keane, and King in Final Year
Nathan Patterson's exit feels inevitable after impressing in a win at Villa Park in January but being overlooked for the rest of the season, with Moyes preferring Jake O'Brien at right back. The right back has been blighted by injury but represented Scotland at the World Cup. Everton prioritises finding a new right back and will listen to offers for the former Rangers man.
Michael Keane signed a 12-month extension earlier this year, joining third-choice goalkeeper Tom King in the final year. Keane was one of several players the club moved early to tie up, along with James Tarkowski, James Garner, and Vitalii Mykolenko. Idrissa Gueye's situation remains unresolved; his representatives engaged with Everton before his World Cup departure with Senegal, but no outcome has been confirmed.
